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1893. NEW ZEALAND.
FEDERATION AND ANNEXATION: PACIFIC ISLANDS. PROCEEDINGS OF THE BRITISH RESIDENT, RAROTONGA. [In continuation of Parliamentary Paper A.-3, 1892.]
Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly by command of His Excellency the Governor.
No. 1. Mr. F. J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 31st May, 1892. I have the honour to report for your Excellency's information that I arrived here on the 19th instant, and found the Governments (local and Federal) working satisfactorily. The Federal Parliament will meet on the 15th June, and the Earotonga Council on the 29th, due preparation being made for the work laid before them. The meeting will be the first held since the Federation, and full information as to the year's operations will be laid before them. The revenue will be in excess of the estimate, but the low prices of cotton and copra will render it advisable to be very careful in the next year's appropriations. The liquor law continues to work satisfactorily, and the drunkenness prevalent eighteen months ago has quite disappeared. The native consumption is confined to what they call " beer," manufactured secretly from the abundant oranges, and for which manufacture they are fined when detected. The coffee crop is being gathered, but is not expected to equal that of last season. Oranges and limes of the finest quality are rotting in great quantities for want of a proper market. They are very abundant this season. The vessel being built entirely by the natives at Natangiia, in this island, is nearly ready for launching. She will be very strong, and of nearly 100 tons. Your Excellency will be pleased to hear that the natives of Mangaia have sent up sufficient produce and money to pay off, within £20 or £25, the fine of $1,390, equal to £208 10s., which I felt compelled to levy upon them for the forcible expulsion of a British subject from their island in August, 1890. Considering the determined opposition they exhibited for some time, the manner in which they have now recognised the justice of the penalty, and paid it without threat or force, reflects great credit upon them and upon their local Government, and gives great hopes for their future. I am glad to report that a school for teaching the Natives English is at work at Ngatangiia, and that I have received information that the London Missionary Society intend making the teaching of English a leading feature in their operations. Nothing could be done more calculated to advance these people. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss, His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G., &c. British Eesident.
No. 2. Mr. F. J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed, —■ British Eesidency, Earotonga, 18th July, 1892. I have the honour to inform your Excellency that the Federal Parliament met on the 15th June, and remained in session till the 9th July. 1. This was the first meeting for general business ; that of last year having been only to federate the islands, to organise a Legislature and Government, to raise a revenue, and do other work necessary to give effect to the federation. This done, an Act was passed, "The Provisional Powers Act, 1891," authorising the Government to appropriate the revenue, and do other necessary work till the Parliament could gain experience, and take it in hand. The Act was to remain in force
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for two years; but the Parliament showed such an intelligent grasp of its duties, so earnest a desire to master the work, and so much moderation in speech and action, that I advised the Government to hand over at once to the Parliament the appropriation of the revenue. An amendment of the Provisional Powers Act was accordingly submitted to Parliament, and passed unanimously. The Parliament is now in full possession of its powers, and its authority has been enhanced materially. 2. The Chairman having been elected, waited upon Makea, Chief of the Government, who handed him the enclosed report of what had been done during the recess, and of the measures which the Government thought it desirable to bring before Parliament. The report had been adopted the day before at a Council of the Arikis (the Government), after sharp discussion as to the propriety of sending such a paper at all. Some of the elder Arikis held that the Parliament, consisting of their inferiors in rank, should come to them and ask what the Arikis wished them to do. The dissentients finally gave way; and a precedent was thus established which will save difficulty on other occasions. The report was well received by the Parliament when read by the Chairman. 3. Deep-rooted and ancient rivalry existed between the different islands, and had given me much trouble at various times, and some anxiety lest it should interfere with the work of Parliament. lam happy to be able to report to your Excellency that these rivalries have been so softened by the friendly intercourse between members at this and the previous session as to have practically disappeared. Among the Arikis, old personal jealousies, especially of precedence, have much decreased, but are still cherished by two or three in full force. The Arikis—to use their own phrase—regard their position as "God-given." They trace their descent from the old heathen gods, and in some of the islands their power has long been supreme. It was right to them, and necessary to the peaceful working of the Federation, that they should be treated with the fullest respect and consideration. That this has been done they recognise and fully appreciate. But dissension speedily arose as to the continuance of Makea as Chief of the Federal Government, and cognate matters. The occasion was critical for the future success of the Federation, and the power of the Parliament depended on these dissensions being overcome. Happily the members from the Islands of Aitutaki and Mangaia have been accustomed to exercise more personal independence, and the Arikis of Atiu, Mitiaro, and Mauke were strong supporters of Makea. The opposition dwindled to the two remaining Arikis of Arorangi and Takitumu, districts in the Island of Earotonga, adjacent to Makea's district of Avarua. But the great difficulty remained, that, according to custom from time immemorial, the dissent of any powerful Ariki was sufficient to prevent action and paralyse the whole body. Arorangi and Takitumu were imperative in their demands that the Chieftainship of the Federal Government should go round yearly amongst the Arikis in rotation of rank ; that the Parliament should meet in each district; that the Judgeship of the Federal Court, the Clerkship of Parliament, and all offices, should go round to each district in turn; and, finally, that there should be three post-offices, and three sets of stamps, each with the likeness of the ruling Anki upon it. 4. My advice was sought in this dilemma, and I had no hesitation in urging them to adopt the principle of ruling by the majority in Parliament, as the only means of effective action. It was a new idea to the members; but they adopted it after careful consideration, and applied the rule in all subsequent proceedings. The result was the adoption (by ten to two) of a national flag, of a new postage-stamp with the likeness of Makea, Ariki, upon it, and an appropriation to build a Parliamenthouse, suitable to their modest requirements, at Avarua, which settles the place for future meetings of Parliament and the seat of the Federal Government. The member for Arorangi seceded, by command of his Ariki, after the above measures were passed; but the Parliament proceeded quietly with its work and took no notice of this secession. The Ariki for Takitumu, seeing this, did not proceed to the same extremes, and I have little doubt that the member for Arorangi will be very glad to return next session. 5. I trust that Your Excellency will not consider the narration of these difficulties unnecessary, as they have been of real importance here, and offered an easy field for intrigue to those of the foreign residents who do not wish to see the Native Government succeed, as well as giving them the means of causing me occasionally considerable trouble and anxiety. The majority-rule has settled many of these difficulties, and will gradually find its way into the local Councils in the several islands. There it may be well left to take its course. Their action is comparatively unimportant; but upon the action of the Parliament the success of the Federal Government depends. 6. I enclose the following documents for your Excellency's information. They have also been sent, with Maori translations, to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary in Wellington, with a request that he will kindly have them, and others sent with them, printed and returned for circulation as early as possible, for there is no means of getting printing done at present in these islands: — 1. "Provisional Powers Act 1891 Amendment Act, 1892." 2. Act for Eegistration of Births. Deaths, and Marriages. 3. For punishing certain Criminals by Banishment to Takutea. 4. To regulate and limit Unauthorised Expenditure. 5. " The ADpropriation Act, 1892-93." ■ 6. "The Subsidies Act, 1892." 7. Eesolution respecting new Postage Stamps. 8. Statement of Eevenue, 1891-92. 9. Statement of Expenditure, 1891-92. 10. Imports for Year ending 30th June. 11. Exports of Cook Island Produce, '30th June. 12. External Trade, 30th June. 13. Eeturn of Shipping. With reference to these enclosures, I beg leave to point out the provision in the Appropriation Act for the non-payment of the fixed annual subsidies of $1,200 till the end of the year. I
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declined to approve the Appropriation Bill till this clause was inserted, as a safeguard against a very probable decrease in Customs revenue, owing to the low prices of produce, and the comparative poorness of the coffee-crop this year. Out of the estimated revenue of $7,000, the sum of $5,000 has been appropriated for public works and education for 1892-93 ; and the provision respecting fixed subsidies, while making the finance safe, cannot in any case have an injurious effect. 7. The Subsidies Act was also necessary, before approving the Appropriation Bill, in order to prevent waste and misuse of the public money. The Native practice has hitherto been to leave the Arikis and chiefs to divide money as they think best. The estimates were very carefully considered, and two officers were struck off as being unnecessary in the Customs. A Divorce Bill, introduced by the Government, was thrown out by eight to four, the majority deciding that they preferred each island making its own laws on this subject. 8. The law providing for banishment to Takutea was rendered necessary by the absence of a gaol, or other means of penal confinement. Two cases of stabbing have occurred during the last year. In one of them the offence was the fourth by the same man. There was, fortunately, no fatal result; but only a fine could be inflicted, and that is quite insufficient to meet offences of the kind. Banishment will only be resorted to in extreme cases. It will be my special duty to see that it is only so applied, and that any cases which may occur are at once reported to your Excellency. 9. In conclusion, I may venture to express to your Excellency my own gratification at the rapidity and soundness of the progress made by the Natives in working the free self-government bestowed upon them under British protection. Of the permanence of the Federation there is no room now to entertain a reasonable doubt. Members of Parliament have returned to their homes proud of their position, and able to explain their proceedings thoroughly to their people. With judicious guidance for a few years, and, above all, with a knowledge of the English tongue, their influence, and with it that of New Zealand, will be widely spread among the numerous islands around them. No attempt has been made to introduce English modes of procedure in their Parliament or Government ; but they are sure to adopt them gradually, as necessities arise. The Island of Mangaia has manifested its own appreciation of the benefits conferred, by paying the balance of the fine levied upon them, and to which I referred in my last despatch. With this payment has ended a most troublesome dispute—the only one of any moment that has occurred in these islands. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss, His Excellency' the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G., &c. British Eesident.
Enclosure No. 1. MESSAGE No. 1. From the Aeikis (the Government) to the Paeliament of the Fedeeation of the Cook Islands. Salutations to you who are now met in Parliament for the first time since our federation. We make to you the following report for the year that is gone, and what we think requires your consideration for the year to come. Bevenue. $ c The financial year does not end till the 30th June. Therefore we can only now give you the revenue till 31st May—namely, eleven months ... .. 5,090 45 Expenditure. The expenditure for eleven months has been ... ... ... ... 2,024 26 The liabilities for subsidies to each Island, and for other expenses to be met on the 30th June, will be about ... ... ... ... ... ... 1,200 00 $3,224 26 Full accounts of revenue and expenditure for the year will be laid before you when the year is ended, and the accounts have been properly audited. Surplus. The revenue for June will depend on the cargoes that arrive, but we can rely on a surplus of $2,000 to be appropriated to public works of some useful kind. In making the appropriations for next year we advise great carefulness, as cotton and copra have fallen in price, and we do not know how the revenue may be affected. Better to err on the safe side. You will then be likely to have money for public works for next year also, instead of running into debt, and so bringing much trouble on all the people. Imports. $ c. The imports for eleven months have been (in currency dollars of three English shillings each) ... ... ... ... ... ... ...123,562 53 Exports. The exports of Cook Islands produce for same period have been ... ... 132,000 56
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External Trade. $ c. Pearl-shell and produce from other islands have also been exported to the value of 16,880 70 Of the goods imported into Earotonga, there has been exported beyond the Federation, after paying duty ... ... ... ... ... ... 13,046 24 Goods have also been imported in bond and exported beyond the Federation ... 13,572 01 Specie. The imports have been. ... ... .. ... ... ... ... 4,689 00 The exports have been ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 8,600 00 Before Parliament separated last year, after establishing the Federation and providing a revenue for its support, you passed the Provisional Powers Act, authorising the Government to do certain things in order to carry out the objects of the Federation. This Act expires on the 30th June, 1893. Under it the Government have made regulations : (1.) For giving effect to the Import Duty Acts (Nos. 1 and 2); (2.) For preventing the introduction of disease; (3.) For establishing a Post Office ; (4.) For the management of Public Schools ; (5.) For a Shipping-master's Office ; and (6.) Appropriation of the revenue. These regulations and the Appropriation have already been published, and are now laid before you. Officers. We have also appointed officers to carry out the work of the Government. A list of these officers, and of their salaries, will be laid before you in accordance with the law. Supreme Court. By virtue of the powers conferred upon the Government by the Supreme Court Act, we have appointed Tepou-o-te-Eangi as Chief Judge. We do not think the Assistant Judges are yet required. Post Office. We have to thank the New Zealand Government for helping us in arrangements with other countries to receive letters with the Cook Island postage-stamps upon them. We have to thank them also for much kindness in other -ways since we became connected with New Zealand. The Post Office is now in full working order. Begistry of Deeds. A registry of deeds has been established and is found useful. The Eegistrar is paid by fees, and receives no salary. Public Schools. We are informed that the London Missionary Society intend making the teaching of English a fixed part of their school-work in the Cook Islands, and that the first teacher will soon be here. You will be glad to hear of this. Our people have often, as missionaries, carried religion to distant islands. They will then be able also to carry the knowledge which the power of reading English books will give them. We are sure you will give to the Society all the help in this good work that you can. Birds and Plants. Various kinds have been introduced from New Zealand. The plants are being taken care of, and will be distributed, when ready, among all the islands. The birds have been let loose, and it is to be hoped will thrive, so that numerous insects may be destroyed. The young of these birds will also be distributed. We advise a good many more birds being introduced at suitable times next year. Coffee-plants. We intended getting new kinds of coffee-plants, but did not do so, as there are diseases killing the coffee-trees in other countries, and we feared the plants might bring those diseases with them. Our coffee is already very fine when the berry is properly cured and allowed to get a suitable age before it is used. If we are careful about that, we can go on planting the seed of our own coffee with the certainty that our coffee will always find a good market. Money. We should like to have introduced English money, and to do away with the inferior South American silver dollars which we have always used for currency. But, after carefully thinking this over, we asked, who will bring us the English money whenever we have need for it'? Some people hoard money when they get it, and others send it out of the country, so that, unless it is being continually brought in, we should soon have none to do our trade with. So we have not done anything in this matter yet. If a bank were here, it would be different. We now come to the work which we wish to place before you for consideration: — 1. To make permanent the Provisional Powers Act of last year, with the exception of the clause giving power to the Government to appropriate the revenue. That work the Parliament will hereafter do for itself. 2. To establish a Government registry for births, deaths, and marriages. 3. To make a divorce law to apply to all the Islands of the Federation. 4. To appoint a federal flag, to be used by all Native vessels going to other countries. On shore we will hoist the Union-jack given to us by the Queen, when the Protectorate of Great Britain was proclaimed, and under which we hope to live for ever.
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5. To authorise, under certain conditions, the sending of persons convicted of violent offences to banishment on the Island of Takutea. There they may learn to repent of their evil deeds, and will not be able to harm other people. 6. To change the law that fixes the day for the meeting of Parliament, and to make it the sth July, in order that in future the accounts for the year may be closed and read before the meeting. 7. To appropriate the revenue for next year. This work will always be one of the most important that Parliament has to do. If we allow the public money to be wasted, or spent wrongfully, we shall bring trouble in many ways upon the people. Eoads and bridges are much wanted; schools have to be established for teaching English ; and there is plenty to be done for the good of all. Be careful then, we say, in making the law for spending the public money, for it must be spent as that law directs, and in no other way whatever. You will be sorry to hear that Lord Onslow, who was so kind to us in every way, and under whose guidance our Federation was established, has given up the Governorship of New Zealand and gone to his own home in England. We shall long remember his name in these islands, and are sure that he will not cease to take an interest in our welfare. The new Governor of New Zealand is Lord Glasgow, but he had not arrived there when we last heard. You will at this meeting of Parliament have plenty of work to do. Think well at each step, and be not in a hurry. Do not be content till you understand thoroughly everything that is done, so that each may be able to explain it clearly to the people of his own island. We pray for God's blessing on you and on your work, and that He may be pleased to direct all you do, so that it will be to the benefit of the people of the Cook Islands. For the Government, Avarua, 15th June, 1892. Makea, Ariki.
Enclosure No. 2. MESSAGE No. 2. From the Aeikis (the Government) to the Paeliament of the Cook Islands. We recommend you to take into consideration, as soon as possible, the appropriation of the money for public works next year, in order that the good season for making roads and bridges and other works may not be lost. The following arrangement would, in our opinion, be most suitable : — To pay to the Council of each Island half the cost of any public work approved by the Federal Government which the said Council may undertake—namely : To Aitutaki, a sum not exceeding $ ; to Atiu, Mitiaro, and Mauke, a sum not exceeding $ ;to Mangaia, a sum not exceeding $ ;to Earotonga, a sum not exceeding $ : in all $2,500. The Government to pay this money only on proper certificates that the work is well done. This subsidy is in addition to the $300 payable by law to each Island. For the Government, Avarua, 15th June, 1892. Makea, Ariki.
Enclosure No. 3. LAWS PASSED BY THE EAROTONGA COUNCIL AT THE SECOND PARLIAMENT, JUNE 15TH TO JULY 9TH, 1892. No. 1 (4th July, 1892). —" Peovisional Powees Act 1891 Amendment Act, 1892." It is hereby enacted by the British Eesident and the Parliament of the Cook Islands : — 1. That section 2 of " The Provisional Powers Act, 1891," giving power to the Government to appropriate the revenue till the year 1893, is hereby repealed. 2. That the limitation of the remaining sections, No. 1 and Nos. 3 to 12, is hereby repealed, and that the said sections shall continue in force. Dated at Avarua this 4th July, 1892. Approved. To come into operation from this date, 9th July, 1892. Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident. No. 2 (6th July, 1892). —Eeoisteation of Bieths, Deaths, and Maeeiages. It is hereby enacted by the British Eesident and the Parliament of the Cook Islands: — 1. That the birth of every child born after the 30th June, 1892, shall be registered by the mother, or other relative of the mother, within one month after birth, under a penalty not exceeding $10 for neglecting so to do; the fine to be recovered in the District Court. 2. That every marriage shall also be registered under a penalty not exceeding $20, to be recovered in the District Court.
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3. That Eegistration Officers shall be appointed by the Chief of the Government at the following places :In Earotonga, three —viz., one each for Avarua, Arorangi, and Ngatangiia; in Aitutaki, one; in Atiu, one; in Mitiaro, one; in Mauke, one; in Mangaia, one. 4. That the fees for registration shall be—for births, 20 cents; for deaths, 20 cents; for marriages, $2. 5. That the Eegistrars shall make up monthly a copy of the births, deaths, and marriages registered by them, in such form as the Government may direct, and shall send the same to the Clerk of this Parliament, by whom the record shall be preserved. Dated at Avarua, the 6th day of July, 1892. Approved. To come into operation from this date, 9th July, 1892. Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident.
No. 3 (4th July, 1892). —Banishment to Takutea. It is hereby enacted by the British Eesident and the Parliament of the Cook Islands : — 1. That any person found guilty of stabbing, or of other criminal acts dangerous to the people, may be, in addition to the punishment authorised by law, banished to the Island of Takutea for such term as the Judge before whom he is tried may deem fit. 2. That such sentence, in the case of a Native, shall be subject to approval by the Ariki of the district in which the offence has been committed, and, if there be no ruling Ariki, by the Government of the district. In the case of a foreign resident, the sentence shall be subject to the approval of the British Eesident. 3. That no person shall be sent to Takutea unless the consent of the Ariki of Atiu, as Lord of the said island, shall have been previously obtained. Dated at Avarua the 4th day of July, 1892. Approved. To come into operation from this date, 9th July, 1892. Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident.
No. 4 (Ist July, 1892). —Unauthoeised Expendituee. It is hereby enacted by the British Eesident and the Parliament of the Cook Islands: — 1. That the Government may expend a sum or sums not exceeding in the whole $800 (eight hundred dollars) in any one year for such public purpose as it may deem desirable. 2. That a statement of such expenditure shall be laid before Parliament at its annual meeting, and the amount be included in the estimates for the following year. Dated at Avarua the Ist day of July, 1892. Approved. To come into operation from this date, 9th July, 1892. Feedeeick. J. Moss, British Eesident.
No. 5 (Ist July, 1892). —" Constitution Act (No. 1) 1891 Amendment Act, 1892." It is hereby enacted by the British Eesident and the Parliament of the Cook Islands: — 1. That the day for the yearly meeting of Parliament shall be altered from the 15th June to the sth July. 2. Clause No. 6 of "The Act to provide for the Good Government of the Cook Islands (1891) " is hereby amended accordingly. Dated at Avarua this Ist day of July, 1892. Approved. To come into operation from this date, 9th July, 1892. Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident.
No. 6. (6th July, 1892).—" Appbopeiation Act, 1892." It is hereby enacted by the British Eesident and the Parliament of the Cook Islands : — 1. That the expenditure for the public service for the year ending the 30th June, 1893, shall not exceed the sums respectively stated, and shall be applied to the purposes respectively named in the Schedules Nos. 1 and 2 attached hereto, amounting in all to seven thousand one hundred and fiftyfive dollars ($7,155). 2. That the Paymaster shall issue no cheques in payment of accounts unless they are formally authorised by the Chief of the Government and certified by the Auditor as being in accordance with this Act. 3. That the bankers of the Government shall pay only such cheques as are signed by the Paymaster and countersigned by the Auditor. 4. That the sums provided by "The Constitution Act, 1891," to be paid to the Local Councils, as per Schedule No. 2 above-mentioned, shall not be paid till the end of the financial year 1892-93. /
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Schedule No. 1. 1. Fixed Appropriations— $ Members of Parliament ... ... ... ... ... ... 360 2. Collection of Eevenue— Collector ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 200 Eevenue Officers, 6 @ $20 ... ... ... ... ... ... 120 3. Supreme Court— Chief Judge ... 120 4. Post OfficeChief Postmaster ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 100 Postmasters, 3 @ $10 ... ... ... ... ... ... 30 5. Shipping-master ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 80 6. Paymaster and Clerk to Parliament and Government ... ... .. 150 7. Public SchoolsTeachers ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 500 8. Auditor ■ ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 100 9. Expenses, Chief of Government ... ... ... ... ... 200 10. Interpreting and clerical assistance ... ... ... ... ... 180 11. General Contingencies — Stationery, &c. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 290 12. Public WorksInspection ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 125 13. Subsidies: Dollar for dollar on public works undertaken by Local Councils, approved by the Federal Government and certified by its Inspector, to the following Councils, not exceeding in each case the sums hereafter mentioned— Earotonga ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 1,000 Aitutaki ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 500 Mangaia . . ... ... ... ... ... ... 500 Atiu, Mitiaro, and Mauke ... ... ... ... . . 500 14. Maintenance of grounds at Ngatipa ... ... ... ... ... 150 15. Building a Parliament House ... ... ... ... ... ... 750 Total: Five thousand nine hundred and fifty-five dollars ... $5,955 Schedule No. 2. $ Subsidies to Earotonga ... ... ... ... ... .. ... 300 Aitutaki ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 300 „ Mangaia ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 300 „ Atiu, Mitiaro, and Mauke ... ... ... ... ... 300 Total: Twelve hundred dollars ... ... ... ... $1,200 Dated at Avarua this 6th day of July, 1892. Approved. To come into operation from this date, 9th July, 1892. Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident.
No. 7 (Bth July, 1892).—" Subsidies Act, 1892." It is hereby enacted by the British Eesident and the Parliament of the Cook Islands, in order to secure the proper administration of subsidies voted by this Parliament to Local Councils: — 1. That Inspectors for each Island shall be appointed by this Parliament, in such manner and with such remuneration as it may by resolution direct. 2. That Overseers shall be appointed by any Local Council receiving a subsidy, in such manner as that Council may direct. 3. That the duty of Inspectors shall be to see, on behalf of this Government, that the work for which a subsidy is claimed has been faithfully done, and is of twice the value of the sum claimed. 4. That the duty of the Overseers shall be to keep a record of the nature of the work done each day, and of the names and number of men employed thereon, and of the amounts due to or paid to each man so employed. 5. Before asking for a certificate from the Inspector, the Overseer or other officer appointed by the Council must send to the Inspector a copy of the daily record, to be attached to the certificate. 6. The Paymaster will not pay any claim unless accompanied by a certificate from the Inspector, with the above copies of the Overseer's daily record attached. 7. Any person falsifying his record, or the copy given by him to the Inspector, or any Inspector knowingly giving a false certificate, shall be liable to a penalty not exceeding one hundred dollars ($100), to be recovered in the local Court, and paid to the Collector of Eevenue for appropriation by this Parliament. Such Overseer or Inspector shall also be ineligible to hold any public office or to be a member of this Parliament for any period not exceeding ten years. Dated at Avarua this Bth day of July, 1892. Approved. To come into operation from this date, the 9th July, 1892. Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident.
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Enclosure No. 4. RESOLUTIONS. Eesolution No I.—(lst July, 1892.) Eesolved, That the Union-jack be quartered upon the flag of the Federation, if we are allowed to do so; and the Chief of the Government is authorised hereby to take any steps necessary for this end. Eesolution No. 2.—(lst July, 1892.) Eesolved, That the Government be asked to ascertain the cost of new postage-stamps, of the same size and description as is used in other countries, and with the likeness of the Chief of the Government thereon. Also, that if the cost does not exceed six hundred and fifty dollars ($650), they may have the said stamps made and brought into use as soon as possible. Eesolution No. 3.—(4 th July, 1892.) Eesolved, That in order to secure the proper expenditure of subsidies to Local Councils, voted by this Parliament: — 1. All works to which such subsidies are to be devoted shall be first approved by the Chief of the Government. 2. That an Inspector for each Island shall be appointed by this Parliament; and that no money shall be paid until the Inspector shall have certified to the Chief of the Government that work to double the value of the amount claimed from such subsidy has been properly executed. 3. That the following persons are hereby appointed Inspectors, and that they shall be paid for the year 1892-93 sums not exceeding the amounts set against each respectively:— For Earotonga ... ... H. Nicholas (fifty dollars) ... ... $50 „ Mangaia ... ... Ngatama (twenty-five dollars) .., 25 „ Atiu ... ... ... Utakea ) „ Mitiaro ... ... Aketava I (twenty-five dollars) ... 25 „ Mauke ... ... Tuaivi J „ Aitutaki ... ... Ngativaro (twenty-five dollars) ... 25 In all, one hundred and twenty-five dollars. $125 Eesolution No. 4.—(6 th July, 1892). Eesolved, That Ngamaru, Ariki and member of this Parliament, be asked to undertake the building of Parliament House. The house to be put up on Takiata in such manner as he may think fit; and failing Ngamaru the appointment be made by himself and the Chief of the Government. That $50 out of the money voted be paid to Ngamaru for such superintendence. Also, that the building is to be put up on Takiata on a section of land 117 ft frontage and 114 ft. from the main road back to the beach, the said section having been given by Makea, Ariki, for the purpose of building a Parliament House.
Enclosure No. 5. ESTIMATES, 1892-93.
Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure for the Year ending 30th June, 1893.
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'evenue. Estimated for Receipts for ! Estimated for 1891-92. 1891-92. 1892-93. Import duty Postages (for two months only) Shipping fees Fees and fines of Court 9 c. 4,000 00 100 00 100 00 100 00 4,000 00 100 00 100 00 100 00 I 5,08 I 12 I 6 l N $ c. 5,083 40 123 53 66 62 Nil. 33 40 23 53 36 62 ril. $ c. 4,650 00 300 00 60 00 Nil. Total ... $j $4,300 00 14,300 00 > $5,27 $5,273 55 13 55 5,010 00 Add surplus from 1891-92 for Accounts ... 2,039 64 Total for 1892-93... $7,049 64
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Expenditure.
Enclosure No. 6. Statement of Bevende received during the Year ending the 30th June, 1892. $ c. Import duty ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 5,083 40 Post Office... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 123 53 Shipping fees ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 66 62 Total ... ... ... ... ... ... $5,273 55 Memo. —The use of Cook Island Government stamps did not begin till the 7th May, 1892, and the revenue is from that date. Included in the import duty is $5 received for a fine levied by the Supreme Court. J. H. Gaeniee, Collector of Eevenue. I have examined the above accounts and compared them with the vouchers, and hereby certify that they arc correct. Earotonga, 2nd July, 1892. J. Scabd, Auditor.
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Voted for 1891-92. Expended 1891-92. Vote for 1892-93. 1. Fixed Payments,— I c. $ c. Members of Parliament ... ... ... 360 00 360 00 Subsidies to Local Councils ... ... ... 1,200 00 1,200 00 2. Collection of Eevenue, —■ Collector ■ ... 200 00 200 00 Eevenue Officers ... ... ... ... 140 00 142 00 3. Supreme Court, — Chief Judge 120 00 120 00 4. Post Office,— Chief Postmaster ... ... ... ... 100 00 100 00 Postmasters, 3 @ $10 ... ... ... 30 00 30 00 5. Shipping-master ... ... ... ... 80 00 80 00 6. Paymaster and Clerk to Parliament and Government 100 00 100 00 7. Public Schools, — Teachers ... ... ... ... ... 500 00 Nil. Contingencies ... ... ... ... 200 00 66 50 8. Auditor 100 00 100 00 9. Expenses, Chief of Government ... ... ... 100 00 100 00 .0. Interpreting and clerical assistance ... ... Nil. Nil. .1. General Contingencies, Stationery, &c. ... ... 800 00 655 41 I c. 360 00 1,200 00 200 00 140 00 120 00 100 00 30 00 80 00 100 00 8 c. 360 00 1,200 00 200 00 142 00 120 00 100 00 30 00 80 00 100 00 9 o. 360 00 1,200 00 200 00 140 00 120 00 100 00 30 00 80 00 100 00 500 00 200 00 100 00 100 00 Nil. 800 00 Nil. 66 50 100 00 100 00 Nil. 655 41 500 00 Nil. 100 00 100 00 180 00 300 00 Total $4,030 00 $3,233 91 $4,030 00 $3,233 91 3,510 00 Public Works. 125 00 .2. Inspection Subsidies. .3. Dollar for dollar on public works undertaken by Local Councils, approved by the Federal Government and certified by its Inspector, to the following Councils, not exceeding in each case the sums hereafter mentioned, — $ c. Earotonga ... ... ... ... ... 1,000 00 Aitutaki ... ... ... ... ... 500 00 Mangaia ... ... ... ... ... 500 00 Atiu, Mitiaro, and Mauke ... ... ... 500 00 A. Maintenance of grounds at Ngatipa .5. Building a Parliament House 2,500 00 150 00 750 00 Total $7,035 00
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Statement of Expenditure for the Year ending the 30th June, 1892.
Makea Daniela, Paymaster. I have examined the above accounts and compared them with the vouchers, and hereby certify that they are correct. J. Scaed, Auditor.
Enclosure No. 7. Eesignation of the Membee for Aeoeangi. Arorangi, 7th July, 1892. To the Chairman and to all the Members of Parliament: Salutations to you. It is I, Pirangi, Member of Parliament for Aroangi. lam not coming to the meeting; I now stay here. Enough. From Pieangi.
No. if Vote. Amount. Service. Total. Fixed Appropriations,— Payment of Members Subsidies to Local Councils, — Earotonga Mangaia ... ... ' Aitutaki Atiu, Mitiaro, and Mauke * c. 360 00 » c. 300 00 300 00 300 00 300 00 1,560 00 Collection of Bevenue, — Collector, Earotonga Eevenue Officer, Mangaia „ Aitutaki Atiu „ Mauke „ Mitiaro „ Arorangi, Earotonga ... „ Ngatangiia, Earotonga 200 00 20 00 20 00 20 00 20 00 20 00 11 00 11 00 322 00 Post Office,— Chief Postmaster, Earotonga Postmaster, Mangaia „ Aitutaki Atiu ... 100 00 10 00 10 00 10 00 130 00 4 Shipping-master, Earotonga 80 00 80 00 5 Paymaster and Clerk to Government 100 00 6 100 00 Auditor, Earotonga 100 00 100 00 7 Public Schools, — To Wildman and Lyell 66 50 66 50 General Contingencies,— To A. Crawford and Co. „ Wildman and Lyell „ Wildman and Lyell „ Henry Nicholas... „ Eoo „ Donald and Bdenborough „ Makea Daniela ... „ Kautai and Avarua Government „ Donald and Bdenborough „ Thomas Short ... 4 00 70 18 7 13 12 50 4 00 514 70 8 50 4 90 10 00 19 50 655 41 9 Supreme Court, — Chief Judge 120 00 120 00 10 Expenses of the Chief of the Government, Makea, Ariki 100 00 100 00 Total $3,233 91
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From the Mataiapos of Aeoeangi. To the Chairman and to all the Members of Parliament: Salutations to you. Our Member is never coming again, because his word is never approved. Enough. From the Mataiapos and Eangatieas of Arorangi.
Enclosure No. 8. Statement of Officees appointed by the Government, and submitted to Parliament in accordance with Section 14, Act No. 1, 1891. July 2, 1891: Collector of Eevenue, Chief Postmaster, and Shipping-master —J. H. Gamier. Clerk to Government and Paymaster—Makea Daniela. Auditor—J. Scard. Chief Judge—Tepou o te Eangi. Eevenue Officers—Ngatama, Eota, Tetupu, Vairakau, Vaipai, Samuela, and Ngania. Postmasters —Ngatama, Eota, and Tetupu. July 17, 1891: Eegistrar of Deeds—J. Scard. Makea, Ariki.
Enclosure No. 9. Addeess of Welcome from the Paeliament of the Cook Islands to His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G. To His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, Governor of New Zealand : Long may you live, with God's blessing. We, the Parliament of the Cook Islands, have just heard of your arrival in New Zealand as the Governor of that country. May New Zealand prosper under your rule; and may you and your wife and family live long, and have all the happiness this world can give. We wish to let you know our affection for Her Majesty the Queen, and our love for the flag which she has given to us for our protection in these Islands. We are now one people; and this is the Parliament that the Seven Islands have sent to make laws for all. It is the second year tha we have met, and we now understand the good work that is being done for us by the British Eesident, Mr. Moss, who was sent to show us the way. We ask of you, Lord Glasgow, to send us a man-of-war sometimes, so that we may show our love for the Queen and her people. Enough. From the Parliament of the Cook Islands, and signed by its order. Earotonga, 9th July, 1892. Tepou o te Eangi, Chairman.
Enclosure No. 10. Addeess of Thanks from the Paeliament to the Beitish Eesident. To our Chief, Mr. Moss, British Eesident. We, the Parliament of the Cook Islands, make known to you our thoughts of the work done and now at an end for this year. On the first meeting of Parliament, last year, we were not very clear; and now, having ended this, our second meeting, we are no longer in doubt. Our forefathers did not understand this good work, and, until Queen Victoria gave us her protection, we did not see light. We thank you, our Head, for leading us into light. Wo now see that it is a great work you are doing, making us of many islands one people, and teaching us how to govern ourselves. The work is good, and will abide ; and your name will be remembered by us and our children in the time to come in these Islands. Enough. From the Parliament of the Cook Islands, and signed by their order. Avarua, Earotonga, 9th July, 1892. Tepou o te Eangi, Chairman.
Enclosure No. 11. Eeply of the Beitish Eesident to the Paeliament. To the Parliament of the Cook Islands: Salutations to you. I have come to thank you for the address you have been kind enough to send me : I shall value it very highly, as a proof that you believe I am only working for the good of the people in the Cook Islands, whom you represent in this Parliament. I am sorry to be told that the member for Arorangi has resigned, and that the Mataiapos have written to you to say that Arorangi will not in future have anything to do with the Parliament. The reason given is that the voice of their member was not listened to. That is the old system. One Ariki, or a few men of rank, could stop a good thing being done if they objected. You the Parliament have nothing to do with that system. You decide by voting, and when many are of one opinion the few against it must give way and accept the decision. The member for Arorangi is a great man, but he cannot expect, when he stands alone against the whole of the rest, that they shall sit still and do nothing merely to please him. Whatever laws a majority of the Parliament may make, and the British Eesident approve, must be obeyed by all the people until they can get the law changed. You have been in session now for more than three weeks, and during that time have fully mastered the work before you. You will go home able to explain it, and the nature of the Federal Government, to all your people. The people govern themselves by their own separate laws within each island; but you will have learned something from your knowledge of Parliament and be able to help them with good advice if they wish to have it. Good-bye to you all, and God's blessing go with you to your homes and people. Avarua, 9th July, 1892. Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident.
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Enclosure No. 12. No. 8 (6th July, 1892).—Fedeeal Flag. (Beserved.) It is hereby enacted by the British Eesident and the Parliament of the Cook Islands : — 1. That the flag for the Federation of the Cook Islands shall be as described in the Schedule hereto. 2. That vessels belonging to the Cook Islands shall use the said flag, but that on shore the flag given to us at the proclamation of Great Britain's [protectorate—namely, the Union-jack—shall continue to be hoisted in all public places. Dated at Avarua the 6th July, 1892.
Schedule. Description of Flag for Marine use.— Three horizontal stripes—red, white, and red—of equal width, with the Union-jack in the upper corner of the red stripe, if it be allowed. Eeserved for consideration of His Excellency the Governor of New Zealand. 9th July, 1892. Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident.
Enclosure No. 13. STATISTICS, 1891-92.
I.—Imports into the Cook Islands for the Year ending 30th June, 1892.
Specie imported from Auckland, New Zealand, $4,689 = £937 16s. J. H. Gaeniee, Collector.
II.—Exports of Native Produce from the Cook Islands for the Year ending 30th June, 1892.
Specie exported to Tahiti during year, $8,600 = £1,290. J. H. Gabniee, Collector.
Articles. From Auckland. From Wellington. From Tahiti. Total Imports. Clothing Piece and fancy goods... Provisions, salted, and preserved Breadstuff's ... General groceries Spirits Wine » c 2,706 96 11,785 67 7,416 84 1,667 33 5,043 17 946 81 74 76 498 75 2,552 66 8 o. 629 02 4,413 06 699 65 1,194 33 1,101 13 136 81 14 30 76 30 780 40 $ c. 2,667 44 22,151 52 2,021 47 3,025 75 1,665 58 185 91 212 30 138 05 2,418 95 9 c. 6,003 42 38,350 25 10,137 96 5,887 41 7,809 88 1,269 53 301 36 713 10 5,752 01 Beer Timber, manufactured and unmanufactured Hardware, ironmongery Tobacco Other articles 6,607 27 1,031 75 3,676 65 2,916 72 1,023 65 1,836 53 3,262 09 483 82 4,513 23 12,786 08 2,539 22 10,026 41 Total $44,008 62 $14,821 90 $42,746 11 $101,576 63 Valued on entry @ $5=£1 sterling £8,801 14s. 6d. £2,964 7s. 8d. £8,549 4s. 5d. £20,315 6s. 6d.
Exported to Auckland, New Zealand. Exported to Wellington, New Zealand. Exported to Tahiti. Total Exports of Cook Islands Produce. Article. Quantity. Value. Quantity. Value. Quantity. Value. Quantity. Value. $ c. 249 00 444 98 742 70 27,473 10 21,179 39 14,031 12 233 00 85 00 3,820 22 10,881 83 169 00 92 33 $ c. 9 c. $ c. 249 00 444 98 792 70 57,917 99 40,221 59 18,207 71 233 00 117 10 4,101 02 17,181 83 169 00 517 83 3ananas, bunches Beche-de-mer, lb. Uocoanuts .. Doffee, lb. .. Dopra,lb. jotton, lb. .. jotton seed, lb. Fungus, lb. .. Oimejuico, gal. Dranges, boxes Pine apples .. Dther articles 749 9,7C8 53,350 134,637 785,579 85,251 70,000 1,127 10,750 11,268 4,225 21,859 522,800 0,444 4,571 00 12,234 00 1,100 93 5,000 118,482 137,124 22,140 50 00 25,873 89 3,808 20 3,075 66 749 9,768 58,350 274,978 1,445,503 113,835 70,060 1,635 17,740 11,468 4,225 ~508 32 10 990 200 280 80 300 00 20 00 405 50 $85,401 67 £12,810 5s. $21,506 73 $33,245 35 $140,153 75 Valued on exporting in Chilian dollars, = 3s. each ) — £ 21,023 Is. 3d .. £ 3,226 0s. 3d. £4,980 16s.
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EXTERNAL TRADE. III.—Produce from Islands outside the Cook Islands Federation Exported during the Year ending 30th June, 1892.
IV. —Merchandise Imported into the Cook Islands and Exported beyond the Federation, during the Year ending 30th June, 1892.
J. H. Gabniee, Collector.
V. —Return of Shipping for the Port of Rarotonga for the Year ending 30th June, 1892.
J. H. Gaeniee, Shipping-master.
Enclosure No. 14. Post Office Eegulations (14th June, 1892). The following additional regulations were passed by the Government in Council at Avarua on the 14th June, 1892 :— Section I. —Section No. 3 of the Eegulations of 10th June, 1891, is hereby repeated. Section 2. —Every master of a sailing-vessel leaving Earotonga or any of the other Islands of the Federation shall carry, free of charge, any mails from the Postmaster of said island to the port of destination of the said vessel. The master shall, if required, give a receipt for the same. He shall also, as soon as possible after arrival at his port of destination, deliver any mails in his charge for or from any of the Islands of the Federation.
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Article. Exported to Auckland, New Zealand. Quantity. Value. Exported to Wellington, New Zealand. Total. Quantity. Value. Quantity. Value. Jeche-de-mer 'earl-shell lb. 2,240 64,939 116,144 5 c. 120 00 11,983 78 2,765 33 lb. 2,408 22,400 176,800 9 o. 96 32 6,000 00 5,166 90 lb. 4,648 87,339 292,944 $ e. 216 32 17,983 78 7,932 23 Jopra Ihilian coin 14,869 11 11,263 22 j 26,132 33 At 3s. to the dollar ... =£2,230 7s. 4d. £1,689 9s. 8d. £3,919 17s.
Destination. After paying Duty. In Bond. Total. To Auckland, New Zealand ... To Tahiti ... To Penrhyn, Manihiki, and Northern Islands Coal, for use of s.s. " Kichmond" » o. 135 35 59 00 12,910 46 $ 0. 225 84 $ c. 361 19 59 00 26,019 47 499 00 13,109 01 499 00 $13,104 81 $13,833 85 $26,938 66 At 3s. to the dollar ...=£1,965 14s. 6d. £2,075 Is. 6d. £4,040 16s.
British, Fre: .eh. Ame: ■ican. Native. To , ;al. «. T0 - No. of Vessels. Tons. No. of Vessels. Tons. No. of Vessels. I Tons. No. of Vessels. Tons. inwards — Sail Steam 42 13 3,497 8,164 8 443 5 210 17 956 72 13 5,106 8,164 Dutwards — Sail Steam 55 11,661 443 210 J7 956 85 12,270 ■12 18 3,517 8,164 7 383 5 210 17 956 71 18 5,066 8,164 55 11,681 383 210 17 956 84 13,230
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Section 3. —The rates of postage to be charged at all the post-offices within the Cook Islands shall hereafter be as follows :— Within the Federation. Letters, closed, per half-ounce or fraction of a half-ounce (one penny half-penny) ... ... ... ... ... ... ... lcjd. Letters, open, per ounce or fraction of an ounce (one penny) ... ... Id. Post-cards, each (one penny) ... ... ... ... .. Id. Newspapers ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Free. Beyond the Federation. Letters, closed, to all countries, per half-ounce or fraction of a half-ounce (twopence-halfpenny) ... ... ... ... ... ... 2^d. Letters, open, per ounce or fraction of an ounce (one penny) ... ... Id. Newspapers, each (one penny) ... ... ... ... ... Id. Section 4. —Chilian or other coin may be received by any of the postmasters at such rates as the Chief Postmaster may from time to time declare by a public notice to be posted at his office. Makea, Approved, 4th June, 1892. Ariki, Chief of the Government. Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident.
No. 3. Mr. F. J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 19th July, 1892. I have the honour to report that the Earotonga Council held its annual meeting on the 29th June, at the residence of Makea, Ariki of Avarua. The Arikis of Arorangi and Takitumu, with their attendants, and the other official members of the Council, were present. The day was occupied in the settlement of land disputes between Native chiefs (which were satisfactorily arranged), and with questions connected with the Chiefship of the Federation, the postage-stamps to be used, and other matters with which the Federal Parliament, including as it does all the other islands, could alone deal. The personal rivalries of the Arikis, which are referred to in my despatch of yesterday's date, have so far prevented the formation of an Executive (local) in Earotonga ; and as no business had therefore been prepared for the Council, I suggested the appointment of a Committee, and an adjournment to a future day. This suggestion was adopted, and the Committee prepared a report and certain Bills, which were laid before the Council at the adjourned meeting on the 13th instant. The Bills were : (1.) To alter the date of future meetings so as not to clash with the meeting of the Federal Parliament. (2.) A Divorce Bill (for Earotonga only). (3.) An Appropriation Bill, to allocate between the three districts $2,665, available for public works from the subsidies granted from the Federal revenue, and from the local revenue of the island. The day was again consumed with land and other disputes; and, on being asked to help them with the Appropriation Bill, I declined to assent unless the allocation was made with due deliberation, and accompanied by safeguards for the proper expenditure of the money. The Council, therefore, adjourned to the 31st August, as the coffeepicking required all their attention at present. The disputes as to position and precedence are confined to this island, and as they have pretty well worn themselves out, I anticipate a more useful meeting on the next occasion. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss, His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G., &c. British Eesident.
No. 4. Mr. F. J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 19th July, 1892. I have the honour to enclose copy of a Bill passed by the Parliament for the adoption of a Federa flag. Each island has its own flag, and it was only after much consideration that the flag of Earotonga was adopted, the three stars representing the three districts of that island being struck out by consent. The Parliament desired much to retain the Union-jack, which has been used on the Earotonga flag since the Protectorate ; but I did not feel justified in formally approving, and deferred the Bill for your Excellency's consideration. The people in these islands will be much gratified if the Union-jack is allowed. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss, His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G., British Eesident. New Zealand.
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Enclosure. Cook Islands Flag. It is hereby enacted by the British Eesident and the Parliament of the Cook Islands: — 1. That the flag for the Federation of the Cook Islands shall be as described in the schedule hereto. 2. That all vessels belonging to any of the Cook Islands shall use the said flag, but that on shore the flag given to us at the Proclamation of Great Britain's protectorate —namely, the Unionjack —shall continue to be hoisted on all public places. Dated at Avarua, 6th July, 1892. Eeserved for the consideration of his Excellency the Governor of New Zealand. Feedeeick J. Moss, 9th July, 1892.
Schedule. Description of Flag for Marine Use. —Three longitudinal stripes—red, white, and red—of equal width, with the Union in the upper corner of the red stripe if it be allowed.
No. 5. His Excellency the Goveenoe to Mr. F. J. Moss. Sic, — Government House, Wellington, 3rd April, 1893. In reply to your Despatch No. 6, of the 19th July, 1892, with reference to the proposed adoption by the Cook Islands of a Federal flag, and also with regard to the use of the Union-jack on shore in those islands, I beg to acquaint you that I have received a letter from the Secretary of State for the Colonies, informing me that the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty have no objection to the flag you propose for marine use, provided that the centre of the Union-jack be defaced by a shield bearing some device; and I would suggest that there should be on the centre of the Union-jack a circular shield, bearing on it a palm-tree. I shall be obliged for eight copies of a coloured drawing of the flag you settle to adopt. I have to add there is no objection to the use of the Union-jack on shore in the Cook Islands. I have, &c, The British Eesident, the Cook Islands. Glasgow.
No. 6. M. F. J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 6th May, 1893. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Excellency's letter of the 3rd April, informing me'that the Union-jack may be placed upon the Cook Islands flag, on condition that a shield bearing some device be placed in the centre. Your Excellency suggests a circular shield with a palm-tree ; but as the Natives make their own flags, I fear the device will be considered too difficult. The Federal Parliament will meet on the sth July, and the contents of your Excellency's despatch will be communicated to them. In case the palm-tree should prove too difficult, I should be glad to know if a circular or oblong shield sewn to each side of the flag, and with a central opening showing the junction of the red cross, would be considered by your Excellency sufficient to meet the conditions. When finally settled, coloured drawings of the flag shall be sent to your Excellency as requested. I have, &c, His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G. Feedeeick J. Moss.
No. 7. His Excellency the Goveenoe to Mr. F. J. Moss. Sic,— Wellington, 10th June, 1893. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Despatch No. 7, of the 6th May, stating that you apprehend a difficulty in carrying out my suggestion to " differentiate " the Unionjack by means of a medallion or shield bearing a palm-tree, and you suggest " a circular or oblong shield sewn on each side of the flag, with a central opening showing the juncture of the red cross." I regret to say that I do not quite comprehend the proposal, and would be glad if you will send me a water-colour sketch showing your idea. It really matters little what is placed on the "Jack," but I should think a shield of white calico, with a simple drawing in black paint of a conventional cocoanut tree, like that in the margin, should not be difficult. I am, &c, The British Eesident, Earotonga. Glasgow.
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No. 8. Mr. F. J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 25th July, 1892. I have the honour to enclose an address to your Excellency from the Federal Parliament of these islands. The occasional visit of one of Her Majesty's ships, for which they asked in the address, would be very welcome to all the Natives in these islands, and give life to their strong feeling of loyalty to Her Majesty the Queen, and attachment to the flag that protects them. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss, His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G., &c. British Eesident.
Enclosure. To His Excellency the Eael of Glasgow, Governor of New Zealand: Long may you live, with God's blessing. We the Parliament of Cook Islands, have just heard of your arrival in New Zealand as the Governor of that country. May New Zealand prosper under your rule, and may you and your wife and family live long and have all the happiness this world can give. We wish to let you know our affection for Her Majesty the Queen, and our love for the flag which she has given to us for our protection in these islands. We are now one people, and this is the Parliament that the seven islands have sent to make laws for us all. It is the second year that we have met; and we now understand the good work that is being done for us by the British Eesident, Mr. Moss, who was sent to show us the way. We ask of you, Lord Glasgow, to send us a man-of-war sometimes that we may show our love for the Queen and her people. Enough. From the Parliament of Cook Islands, and signed by its order. Tepou-o-te-Eangi, Earotonga, 9th July, 1892. Chairman.
No. 9. Mr. P. J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 29th July, 1892. I have the honour to inform your Excellency that just before the departure of the steamer " Eichmond " for Auckland, on the 26th instant, I heard that Mr. J. P. Gore Martin (who left by the " Eichmond "), carried with him a document, purporting to be an authority to himself from the " Government of Earotonga " to import labourers from other islands in the Pacific, under contract to work on plantations here. 1. I at once made inquiry, and found that such a paper had been obtained only on the morning of the steamer's departure, and that it had been immediately registered in the Eegistry of Deeds in the original Maori, and without any English translation. I may observe that registration here is only for the better security of deeds, and does not give them any legal privilege or validity. 2. The history of the case will, I think, be found sufficiently clear from the following papers which I have the honour to enclose : (1) An English translation of the registered document; (2) my letter to Tepou, 27th July ; (3) Tepou's reply, 27th July; (4) my letter to Mr. Exham, 27th July ; (5) my reply to Tepou, 27th July ; (6) Mr. Exham's reply to me, 28th July; (7) my letter to Mr. Nicholas, 28th July ; (8) Mr. Nicholas's reply, 28th July; (9) my letter to Mr. Martin, 28th July. 3. Ido not know if Mr. Martin took with him a translation of the document. That which I have enclosed for your Excellency's information may be depended upon as correct. As Mr. Martin must apply to your Excellency, or to the High Commissioner, for a license before employing any vessel to obtain labourers, I presume he must have taken a translation of some kind with him. 4. Judge Tepou sees the blunder into which he has been led, and is not likely to be so misled again. Old ways must occasionally clash with new, scarcely yet a year in existence. Tepou is a man of high rank, and of brains and good feeling. I have found, and hope long to find him, an ardent and valuable helper in the establishment of a systematic Government in these Islands. 5. No Executive Government has yet been formed in Earotonga. Mr. Martin was aware of this. The Earotonga Council makes laws for the whole island. In each of the three divisions the Ariki of the division still rules, subject to those laws. Local jealousies have prevented the formation of a single Executive for the island, but I hope that they will be gradually overcome, as they have already been in some other of the islands of the Federation. 6. On the main subject I may be permitted here to state that the question is one of the greatest importance to the future of this people. Immigration is urgently needed, for the existing population is certainly not increasing. But the islands are small, and few colonists would be content with the area that could be allotted to each. On the other hand, the soil is extremely fertile, and the chief product (coffee) of great value. The immigration of suitable people is a subject on which I have had the honour to write in previous despatches. I still look to such immigration for a more vigorous life in these islands. 7. To bring labourers under contract, to be returned to their own islands at the end of a term, is a different matter, and requires very serious consideration. I believe that it could only be properly done in Government vessels, officered by persons directly responsible to Government. The labourers must not only come voluntarily; they must be of good character, and bring a fair proportion of women with them. The introduction of heathen natives in any number would also
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lead to much difficulty among a people so extremely sensitive to religious observances as the people of these islands. Few men could satisfactorily perform the duties of Government immigration agents while in sole and constant intercourse with the master of a trading-vessel, whose only object is to fill her with the cargo of labourers on which the success of his voyage depends. 8. Those who seek cheap Island labour must, as a rule, resort to the heathen islands where the chief still has power—on payment to himself—to order any of his people to leave in the vessel. The chief is likely to send those of whom he most desires to get rid, and who are as likely to be the least acceptable in the island to which they are taken. They would be a constant source of difficulty and expense to the Government, and, above all, of a more or less inevitable deterioration to the people. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident. His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G., Governor of New Zealand.
Enclosure No. 1. [Teanslation.] Earotonga, 26th July, 1892. It is hereby sanctioned by the Government of Earotonga that J. P. Gore Martin will bring labourers for himself—namely, from one to a hundred. Another. When they arrive here, on this land, you will abide by your agreement, and so will your labourers to you. Another. If your men commit themselves against the laws of the land, they shall be dealt with accordingly. Another. At the expiration of three years, you will send them away yourself to the place where you took them from. Another. You will treat them well, provide food and pay them well, to prevent dissatisfaction among them. Tepou-o-te-Eangi, Chief Judge. For the Government of Earotonga. I do hereby certify this is a correct translation.—H. Nicholas, 27th July, 1892.
Enclosure No. 2. The Beitish Eesident to Judge Tepou. British Eesidency, Earotonga, 27th July, 1892. To Tepou-o-te Eangi, Chief Judge, Avarua, Earotonga. Salutations to you. I send for your perusal a document, said to have been given by you yesterday to Mr. J. Gore Martin, and registered by him in the Eegistry of Deeds. The law of Earotonga (No. 42) says that no labourers are to be brought from another land, and I cannot find that this law has ever been altered by the Earotonga Council. Will you kindly let me know if the law has been altered, and, if it has not, on what grounds the document was given to Mr. Martin, who left yesterday by the "Eichmond " for New Zealand. Also, who are the Government of Earotonga by whose authority the document purports to be given ? I am, your friend, Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident.
Enclosure No. 3. [Teanslation.] Judge Tepou to the Beitish Eesident. To our Chief, Mr. Moss. Earotonga, 27th July, 1892. Salutations to you, with God's blessing. I have received your letter of this day, 27th July. About the letter I wrote to Mr. Martin. The cause of my doing so was this: I asked him if he had been to Mr. Moss, and he said " Yes." Therefore, I agreed with him to import men to Earotonga. Another thing: lam well aware that the law is in existence to this day. I acted according to our old system. That is how I wrote the letter I gave to Mr. Martin. Now, my Chief, I have erred. You write to Mr. Martin and withdraw the letter that I wrote and gave to him. Again, I will never write another such document. Also, Mr. Exham has been to me for the same purpose. Enough. From your friend, Tepou-o-te-Eangi. I hereby certify that this is a correct translation.—H. Nicholas, 27th July, 1892.
Enclosure No. 4. The Beitish Eesident to Mr. Exham. Sib, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 27th July, 1892. I have the honour to inform you that I am investigating the circumstances under which a document was obtained yesterday by Mr. J. P. Gore Martin, and immediately registered by him, purporting to be an authority from the Government of Earotonga to bring labourers for himself from other of the Pacific Islands to Earotonga.
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As I first heard from you, just before the departure of the " Richmond " for Auckland, that Mr. Martin had obtained this document, I should be much obliged for any further information you may be able to give me. I should add that Judge Tepou informs me that you had recently asked him for a similar power for your firm (Messrs. Donald and Edenborough). As I shall have to state this in my report, I shall be glad if you will also let me know anything you wish to say on that point. I have, &c, R. Exham, Esq., Rarotonga. Frederick J. Moss, British Resident.
Enclosure No. 5. The Beitish Eesident to Judge Tepou. British Eesidency, Earotonga, 27th July, 1892. To Tepou-o-te-Eangi, Chief Judge, Avarua, Earotonga. Salutations to you. I have received your letter of to-day, in reply to mine about the document you gave to Mr. J. P. Gore Martin, who has taken it with him to New Zealand. Mr. Martin did see me, but I showed to him the law, and told him that it could only be altered by the Earotonga Council with the approval of the British Eesident. I advised him not to think of such a thing. To bring people in to cultivate the waste lands would be well. But let them be people of good character to settle on land which will be theirs and their children's so long as they pay a fair rent to the present owner. To have any one bringing men here, who are often sent from their own lands because their character is evil, would be very wrong. Also, it would be very wrong to give to any one person a privilege which others have not. If the law is ever altered it must be for all. I will write at once to the Governor of New Zealand, and to Mr. Martin, asking the latter gentleman for that document to be returned as you desire. No harm will be done, for it does not bind Earotonga in any way; and Mr. Martin must have known that after what I told him. I am, your friend, Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident.
Enclosure No. 6. Mr. Exham to the Beitish Eesident. Sm,— Earotonga, 28th July, 1892. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of yesterday's date. Eegarding the document obtained by Mr. Martin, I can give you no further information but the fact that he showed it to me, and asked Mr. Scard to register same ; but, as I understood from Mr. Martin that Mr. Nicholas, the Government Interpreter, accompanied him to Makea (Ariki), and Judge Tepou, I infer that he would be able to tell you all the circumstances. Be the statement that I asked Tepou for a similar power for Messrs. Donald and Edenborough, that is not the case. I simply asked Tepou, before the meeting of Parliament, if he would bring the matter before the members, and he promised to do so. This I did at Mr. Martin's request. I am, &c, F. J. Moss, Esq., H.B.M. Eesident. E. Exham, Lloyds Agent. [Memo. —Mr. Nicholas is not Government Interpreter. There is no such officer, and there never has been.—F. J. Moss.]
Enclosure No. 7. The Beitish Eesident to Mr. Nicholas. g IE; British Eesidency, Earotonga, 28th July, 1892. I wrote to Mr. Exham yesterday, asking if he could give me any information respecting a document given to Mr. J. P. Gore Martin by Judge Tepou, authorising Mr. Martin to import labourers into Earotonga. Mr. Exham replies that you " accompanied Mr. Martin to Makea (Ariki), and Judge Tepou," and adds, " I infer that he (Mr. Nicholas) would be able to tell you all the circumstances." I shall be much obliged for any information you can give. I have, &c, Henry Nicholas, Esq., Merchant, Earotonga. Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident.
Enclosure No. 8. Mr. Nicholas to the Beitish Eesident. g IE Earotonga, 28th July, 1892. In answer to your's of to-day's date, asking for information respecting a document given by Judge Tepou to Mr. J. P. Gore Martin, authorising him to import labourers into Earotonga, I beg to state, — . . Mr. Martin asked me to accompany him and act as interpreter in an interview between him and Makea (Ariki) and Judge Tepou. We first saw Tepou, when Mr. Martin asked him for authority to import labourers into Earotonga. Tepou pointed out the law prohibiting such importaoion, and referred us to Makea (Ariki), asking Mr. Martin to take the law-book with him. Before leaving, Tepou asked Mr. Martin if he had seen Mr. Moss on the subject. Mr. Martin said " Yes."
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We then went to Makea (Ariki). On explaining our errand, Makea asked Mr. Martin if he had been to Mr. Moss, and Mr. Martin replied in the affirmative. Makea did not seem enchanted with the proposal, and inquired as to what class of people he intended to introduce, and where he proposed obtaining them. Mr. Martin replied that he would be wholly responsible for his labourers, and would, if necessary, enter into bonds for £500 to that effect; and he proposed getting them from Tokehau. Makea ultimately consented, and referred us to you. We went to your office, but I did not go inside with Mr. Martin, and cannot say what occurred between you. I acted merely as interpreter, saying nothing for or against the proposition. I was under the impression that you knew and approved ; but cannot call to mind that Mr. Martin exactly said so. I think he rather led us to infer that he had your approval. The document alluded to was dictated by Mr. Martin to Tepou; but I was not asked to, nor did I, make any translation of the same. I have, &c, F. J. Moss, Esq., British Resident. H. Nicholas.
Enclosure No. 9. The Beitish Eesident to Mr. J. P. Goee Maetin. Sic, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 28th July, 1892. I am requested by Judge Tepou to (? ask you to) cancel and return to me —for him—a document which he gave you on the 26th instant, and which you registered in the Eegistry of Deeds here in the original Maori, and without translation. Tepou tells me that he gave this under a misapprehension as to his own powers, and only because he understood you to say that I approved of the proposed importation of labourers from other islands. When you spoke to me at my office on the subject, I showed you the long-established law, prohibiting all such importation, and told you that no one had power to act in opposition to this law. The document, you must therefore have been aware, is entirely illegal and worthless. I have, &c, J. P. Gore Martin, Esq., Auckland. Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident.
No. 10. Mr. F. J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 29th August, 1892. I have the honour to enclose for your Excellency's information the following Acts passed by the Earotonga Council at its sitting on the 23rd instant: (1) " Divorce Act, 1892 ; " (2) " Appropriation Act, 1892-93." The Divorce Act will, it is hoped, end a very unsatisfactory state of affairs in that respect. The Appropriation Act was passed after three sittings of the Council. There was, naturally, much division at first, as this is the first revenue ever appropriated by the Council. lam glad to report that in the end the best feeling prevailed, and the old jealousies practically disappeared. I also enclose: (3) Estimate of Eevenue for 1892-93; (4) Eeport of Licensing Officer. The only other subject of interest was a lease of certain land executed by Karika, Ariki, in favour of a European, and in respect of which Karika is said to have proceeded to Wellington early this month in the "Linda Weber." The land is occupied by a considerable number of Natives, and cannot be leased without the consent of Pa, the Ariki of the district in which the land is situated. Pa refuses to give his consent, or to allow the present occupants to be removed. The Council unanimously agreed with Pa, and the lease was formally destroyed. The money appropriated will, I have no doubt, be carefully expended, and the roads much improved. The other Island Councils will hold their meetings before the end of the year, and appropriate similarly the money at their disposal. I have great pleasure in stating for your Excllency's information that there is nothing but satisfaction among the Native people at the present state of affairs. They are proud of their Government, and begin to appreciate the benefit to be derived from its systematic operation. Nor have I any reason to suppose that there is discontent of any kind among the Europeans and other foreign residents, though occasional complaints—none of them of any moment—are inevitable. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss. His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G., &c. British Eesident.
Enclosures. ACTS PASSED BY THE RAROTONGA COUNCIL, 1892. [Teanslation.] Eepoet of the Committee appointed by the Council at its meeting on the 29th June, to prepare such business as it may be desirable to bring before the Council at its Adjourned Meeting of the 13th July. In accordance with the resolution of the Council as to the formation of this Committee, the British Eesident undertook to act as Chairman, and reports : — 1. That the following appointments were sent to him of persons to act as members of the Committee—namely: From Arorangi, Mr. J. M. Salmon; Takitumu, Teatuairo; Avarua, Tepou-o-te-Eangi.
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2. That on receiving the names of these gentlemen, he at once informed the Arikis of Arorangi and Takitumu that Mr. Salmon and Teatuairo were not Members of the Council, and therefore not eligible to sit on its Committee. No other names have since been sent to him. 3. It then became a question whether Tepou-o-te-Eangi, being the only member properly appointed, should act in the absence of other members. The British Eesident decided that this was for Tepou to consider, he himself merely acting as Chairman at the request of the Council, and his position being only that of Adviser if his advice were requested. Any laws passed by the Council must be submitted to him for approval according to the Constitution Act, and it would then be for him to act as he might think necessary. 4. Tepou therefore decided that he would only take up business that was urgent —namely : The Appropriation Bill; the appointment of Overseers of Works ; the alteration of the time of meeting of the Council, so that it might not be at the same time as the Parliament; and the Divorce Bill. 5. Other measures, such as the preventing of pigs, horses, and cattle being a public nuisance; preventing the spread of noxious weeds; planting cocoanuts along the shores as a means of future revenue to the Council, are left for the Council whenever it may again meet, if it think fit to take them in hand. 6. Eespecting the appropriation of the revenue, your Committee find that the sum available is— From permit fees in hand ... ... ... ... ... ... $965 From the fixed subsidy already paid and the subsidy granted by Parliament—namely, half the cost of any approved public work, the whole not to exceed ... ... ... ... ... 1, 300 And from permit fees for 1892-93 ... ... ... ... ... 400 From subsidy,for year 1892-93 ... ... ... ... ... 300 Total ... ... ... $2,965 7. They think, therefore, that the Council can safely appropriate $2,965 for the year ending 30th June, 1893, in the manner suggested for the Council's consideration in the Appropriation Bill appended hereto. 8. The conditions on which the subsidies are granted are : That the Council shall appoint overseers of works. That these overseers shall keep a true and faithful account of all work done, of the number and names of men employed daily, and of the sum to which each man is entitled for his work. That these overseers shall send in every week a copy of these accounts to the Inspector appointed by Parliament, who shall thereupon give a certificate with the overseer's reports attached, if he is satisfied of the correctness of such reports and the value of the work done. That no money shall be paid by the Paymaster without the Inspector's certificate and overseer's reports being sent to him by the Inspector and attached to the voucher. 9. The Council will, therefore, have now to consider : Who are to be the overseers, or by whom they shall be hereafter appointed; whether it will itself appoint them now, or leave the Arikis to appoint them and send in their names to the Paymaster. To consider the Appropriation Bill, the Divorce Bill, and the Bill to alter the date of the Council's future meetings, the drafts of which Bills are submitted herewith. 10. The Committee have only further to observe that the Subsidies Act passed by Parliament provides a penalty not exceeding $100, and deprivation of office for not more than ten years, as a punishment for any overseer who may give false accounts, or any Inspector who may knowingly accept such false accounts or give a false certificate. 11. Mr. Henry Nicholas was appointed by the Parliament as Inspector for Earotonga ; but he has expressed his willingness to resign in favour of any person who may be nominated to that office by the Council and be approved by the British Eesident, as the proper expenditure of this money concerns the foreign residents as much as the Maori people. Feedeeick J. Moss, Chairman. Appendix. Submitted herewith, for the Council's consideration: Eesolution as to the appointment of overseers ; Appropriation Bill for expenditure of $2,965 during the year 1892-93; Divorce Bill; Bill to alter the day of future meetings of Council to the 4th August every year. [Teanslation.] No. I.—An Act to Amend the Law Constituting the Eaeotonga Council (No. 6, 1891). 1. It is hereby enacted by the Earotonga Council, that the Council shall hereafter meet on the 4th day of August in each year, instead of the 3rd May; and section No. sof Law No. 6, 1891, is hereby amended accordingly. Dated at Avarua, this 23rd day of August, 1892. Approved. To come into operation forthwith.—23rd August, 1892. Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident. [Teanslation.] No. 2.—" Divoece Act, 1892." It is hereby enacted by the Earotonga Council: — 1. That there shall be a Divorce Court for the Island of Earotonga, with jurisdiction confined to marriages celebrated in the Island of Earotonga. 2. That the Judges of Avarua, Arorangi, and Takitumu shall sit together, and constitute the said Court.
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3. That they shall appoint a Clerk, who shall keep the records of the Court, and be paid yearly such salary as this Council may vote. 4. That the Court shall meet quarterly on the 4th day of April, July, October, and January ; and if that day be Sunday the Court shall meet on the following day. 5. That the quarterly meetings of the Court shall be held at such place as the Judges may from time to time appoint. 6. That the Court may grant divorces on account of adultery or desertion; and the ground for divorce must be written in the records of the Court when the judgment is given. 7. That one or more of the Judges may at the quarterly meetings hear any application for divorce, provided that such application must have been sent to the Clerk of the Court in writing at least one month before the Court is held. 8. That the Court shall report its decision to the Ariki of the district to which the applicant belongs ; and if the Ariki does not agree with the decision, the case shall be again heard at the next quarterly sitting of the Court by not less than two Judges. If the Judges are then unanimous, the decision shall be final. If they are not unanimous, the application shall again be heard at the next quarterly sitting of the Court, and its decision be final. 9. That wherever a foreign resident is concerned, he or she may appeal from the Court to the British Eesident; and the case shall then be subject to the same conditions as when the appeal is to the Ariki of the district. 10. In addition to the record of the Court kept by the Clerk, each Judge shall keep a separate book of the cases connected with his own district, and submit the same to the Ariki of his district for approval. The Ariki's decision shall be written in the said book, and the Judge will then communicate it to the Clerk, who shall enter it in the record kept by him accordingly, 11. That the fees in the annexed Schedule shall be paid in every case to the Clerk of the Court, and be handed by him to the Collector of Eevenue for the Cook Islands, who shall retain the same till appropriated by the Earotonga Council. 12. Thirty dollars is hereby appropriated for payment of clerks from these fees. Dated this 23rd day of August, 1892. Approved. To come into operation forthwith. —23rd August, 1892. Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident. Schedule. Scale of Fees. $ On Application for Divorce ... ... ... ... ... ... 10 On Judgment being given ... ... ... ... ... ... 10 Any subsequent Hearing ... ... ... .... ... ... 5 For copy of Eecord of final Judgment... ... ... ... ... 1 [Teanslation.] No. 3. —" Appeopeiation Act, 1892" (for the year ending June, 1893). It is hereby enacted by the Earotonga Council: — 1. That the sum of $2,730 shall be expended in the manner and proportions prescribed in the Schedule attached hereto. 2. That all accounts shall be certified by the Auditor as within the vote in each case and according to the Schedule. 3. That Makea Daniela is hereby appointed to keep the accounts and to issue cheques, which shall not be paid until they are also countersigned by the Auditor. Dated at Avarua this 23rd day of August, 1892. Approved. To come into operation forthwith.—23rd August, 1892. Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident. Vote. Schedule. $ 1. Clerk to Council ... ... ... ... ... ... 30 2. Auditor ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 20 3. Eentofbond ... ... .. ... ... ... ... 36 4. Interpreting, and clerical assistance ... ... ... ... 60 5. Paymaster ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 20 6. Contingencies, to be expended on certificate of Licensing Officer for stationery, &c. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 24 7. Contingencies, wheelbarrows, tools, &c, to be certified by Paymaster ... 140 8. For work already done— To the Au of Avarua... ... ... ... ... ... 100 „ Arorangi ... ... ... ... .. 100 Takitumu ... ... . ... ... ... 100 For work to be done on the following conditions : —■ That the overseers appointed by the Arikis in each district keep a daily account of the number of men employed during that day, and the work upon which they have been employed. That a copy of this daily account be sent at the end of each week to the Paymaster, who shall attach them to the account made up by him. That the said account and daily reports shall then be sent to the Inspector, and that the Paymaster shall not pay such accounts until the Inspector has also attached his certificate as to the value and quantity of the work done.
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9. To the Au of Avarua, for roads and bridges between Takarua and Pokoinu ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 800 10. To the Au of Arorangi, for roads and bridges between Pokoinu and Toreaiva ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 500 11. To the Au of Takitumu, for roads and bridges between Toreaiva and Takarua ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 800 Total ... ... ... ... $2,730 [Teanslation.] Eesolved by the Earotonga Council: That the Overseers of public works required by " The Subsidies Act, 1891," shall be appointed for the Districts of Avarua, Arorangi, and Takitumu, by the Ariki of each of the said districts, and their names be sent by the Ariki to the Inspector appointed by Parliament. Avarua, 23rd August, 1892. — ■ [Teanslation.] Estimated Eevenue of the Earotonga Council from Ist July, 1892, to the 30th June, 1893. Permit fees received by the Licensing Officer from Ist January, 1891, to $ 30th June, 1892 (net)... ... ... ... ... ... 965 Estimated to 30th June, 1893 ... ... ... ... ... 400 Fixed subsidy from Federal Eevenue for the year ending 30th June, 1892... 300 Fixed subsidy from Federal Eevenue for the year ending 30th June, 1893 300 Special subsidy for the year ending 30th June, 1893 ... ... ... 1,000 Total ... ... ... ... ... $2,965 [Teanslation.] To Chairman of Earotonga Council; I heeewith forward statement of fees levied on permits for liquor, the first law of the kind ever made and carried out on any island of the Pacific ; and the honour belongs to you, the people of Earotonga. I have had no trouble with the Maori people; but I cannot say the same of the others, as I have been obliged to issue four orders of " total prohibition," three recently. I consider the law is not strict enough for people under " total prohibition." Those under it ought to be compelled to obey the law as far as possible, and if they drink intoxicating liquor they ought to be made to pay a heavy fine, or work it out. The person or persons from whom they obtain the liquor, or on whose premises they drink it, ought also to be made to pay a very heavy fine, or work on the roads. Laws which are made must be obeyed, and not treated with contempt. Enough. God bless the Council and the people, and give them wisdom to see what is best for Earotonga. J. H. Gaeniee, Licensing Officer. Earotonga, 2nd July, 1892. [Teanslation.] Statement of Fees levied on Permits for Liquor received by and due to Licensing Officer, Earotonga, from the Ist July, 1891, to the 30th June, 1892 : — Amount of fees on— . $ c. $ c. 287 dozen bottles Beer @ 30 cents, per dozen ... 86 12 73J „ „ Wine „ 60 „ ... 44 25 394|g „ „ Spirits, $3ga per doz. ... ...1,184 61 1,314 98 Disbursements— Licensing Officer's salary... ... ... ... 360 0 Clerk of Council... ... ... ... ... 20 0 Auditor ... . . ... ... ... 20 0 Interpreting ... ... ... ... ... 20 0 Patu, printing laws ... ... ... ... 170 Meau, pilotage" Vanderbilt" .. ... ... 9 0 Court fees, Goodwin and De Lisle... ... ... 90 Eent of bond store—three months to the 30th June ... 90 Sundries ordered by Tepou, &c. ... ... ... 11 60 475 60 Unexpended during year... ... ... ... ... 839 38 Cash on hand, Ist July, 1891 ... ... 126 05 Total amount unappropriated ... ... ... 965 43 Cash on deposit ... ... ... ... 575 17 Amount due for fees in course of collection ... ... 390 26 965 43 Earotonga, 2nd July, 1892. J. H. Gaeniee, Licensing Officer. I heeeby certify that I have examined the above accounts, and compared the vouchers therewith, and find the same to be correct. 4th July, 1892. J. Scaed, Auditor.
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No. 11. Mr. F. J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 30th August, 1892. I have the honour to report that the American schooner, " Te Uira," trading among these islands, arrived yesterday, and reports that H.M.S. "Champion" arrived at Aitutaki on the morning of the 26th, from Honolulu. The "Te Uira" left Aitutaki the same evening, but the master brought a message to me from the Captain of the " Champion," who was surveying the lagoon and entrance, that he hoped to be in Earotonga in a few days. Being obliged to husband coal, the movements of the "Champion" must be, I presume, uncertain, so far as this group is concerned. I have, &c., Feedeeick J. Moss, His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G., &c. British Eesident.
No. 12. Mr. F. J. Moss to the Colonial Seceetaey. Sib, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 30th August, 1892. I have the honour to report that the "Eichmond" brings from Tahiti intelligence of important changes in the Customs tariff of the French colonies in the Pacific. I have no means of learning them accurately and in detail, but draw attention to them, as the reports made by H.B.M. Consul at Tahiti may not be available in New Zealand for some time. Hitherto duties have been levied by the Consul-General in Tahiti—a body established by decree in Paris 28th December, 1885. These duties are payable in French money, and, as the currency is in Chilian money, they practically range from 12 per cent, to 35 per cent, higher, according to the premium. The duties are in the nature of an . By decree in Paris of 9th May, 1892, authority was given to establish a regular Customs, and to levy certain duties on imports. This decree was transmitted from Paris on the Ist of June, and received in Tahiti by the " Eichmond's " mail. It was promulgated on the 4th August by the Governor of Tahiti, and brought into immediate operation. The duties levied by this new tariff are much the same as the Octroi de mer levied by the local Government. But they are levied from France, and accompanied with express provision that the Conseil-General may continue its Octroi de mer at such rates as it may find advisable. The inference in Tahiti when the "Eichmond" left was that the Customs duties will be appropriated towards Tahiti's considerable debt to the French Government: and this inference is strengthened by a report that firms, well-informed of what is being done from Hamburg, have been clearing all they could from bond in anticipation of this duty, of which they had received news by cable through San Francisco. A trader from Earotonga, who went by the " Eichmond" to make purchases at Tahiti, has returned without doing so, and tells me that cotton goods have advanced about 30 per cent, under the operation of what is expected to be a double tariff. Under the new Customs tariff, champagne and similar articles, whose designation proclaims their French origin, are left unmentioned. From this, and general terms of the decree, it is inferred that the tariff will not apply to imports of French goods, but be levied only on those from other countries. The imports of French goods have never, lam informed, been extensive in Tahiti, and have not, at all events, clashed with those from New Zealand. The following are of more particular interest to New Zealand: The new tariff enforces a duty on tinned meats, Bfr. per 100 kilos; salted meats, 3fr. per 100 kilos; biscuits (Navy), 3fr. per 100 kilos ; tinned fish, lOfr. per 100 kilos; sugar, 25fr. per 100 kilos ; butter, lOfr. per 100 kilos; cheese, 6fr. per 100 kilos ; furniture, 13fr. per cent, ad valorem; galvanized iron, 13fr. per cent, ad valorem; carts and carriages, 20fr. per cent, ad valorem; hams and bacon, Bfr. per 100 kilos; concentrated milk, Bfr. per 100 kilos; cordage, lOfr. per 100 kilos; tea, Bfr. per cent, ad valorem; coffee, Bfr. per cent, ad Valorem. Live stock are free. Produce of other islands imported for re-export is also free, but coffee is specially excepted. This should direct the coffee now sent from the Cook Islands to San Francisco, via Tahiti, to New Zealand instead. It must close, to some extent at all events, unless the effect in Tahiti be modified by local regulations made under the Act. Gloves pay 30 per cent, ad valorem; tissues of cotton wool, 13 percent.; and if, as it seems probable, both this tariff and the Octroi de mer are to be in force together, it will be difficult for traders in these islands, even when branches of Tahiti firms, to supply themselves with assorted goods from Tahiti. Whole packages only can be taken out of bond. I have also to report the sale to the Natives of Marongaronga (Penrhyn) of the American schooner "Te Uira," for £525 cash. She is an old Californian-built vessel, of under forty-five tons. It is a pity that New Zealand schooners cannot be built in the style which attracts the Natives to purchase these vesssels, so much inferior to New Zealand vessels in all other respects. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss, Agent for the Government of New Zealand The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington.
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No. 13. Mr. F. J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 29th September, 1892. I had the honour to report to your Excellency in my despatch (10/92) of the 30th April, that H.M.S. " Champion" was at Aitutaki when the last mail left for New Zealand. The " Champion" arrived here on the 14th instant, and left on the 9th for Tahiti. Captain Eooke's report on the Aitutaki Lagoon as a harbour for large vessels will not, I regret to say, be favourable; but, being made after a thorough and careful examination, will set the question at rest. Captain Eooke was kind enough, at my request, to call at Mangaia on the way to Tahiti. His stay at that island was necessarily very short, but I have received letters from Mangaia expressing much gratification. I should like to have gone to Mangaia, but the uncertainty as to an opportunity of returning prevented me. The people of these islands prize very highly the visits of Her Majesty's ships, and Queen Makea expressed to Captain Eooke and myself her regret that his visit could not be prolonged, and her cordial thanks for the kindness and courtesy which Captain Eooke and his officers had shown to her and to the other Arikis and people. I need scarcely add that to myself the visits of Her Majesty's ships are of great value. Captain Eooke was kind enough to have also examined a small harbour on the south side of Earotonga. This was done just before the " Champion's " departure ; but, from what I could learn, will probably show that the approaches may be made practicable at no great outlay. As cultivation extends, such a harbour will become useful, but I do not consider that at present any outlay would be justifiable. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss, His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G., etc. British Eesident.
No. 14. His Excellency the Goveenoe to Mr. F. J.- Moss. Sic,— Wellington, sth October, 1892. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of the despatches (Nos. 1 to 8) from you of the dates specified thereon. With respect to Despatches Nos. 1 and 5, I have had communications with my Ministers on the subject of your position, salary, and allowances. They have given the subject their best consideration, and they state that, having placed £500 on the estimates as salary for 1892-93, and £100 to cover liabilities, they see no reason for departing from the decision at which they have arrived. I am afraid, therefore, that nothing more can be done in this matter. With reference to Despatches Nos. 2, 3, and 4, I have perused with much interest and satisfaction your account of the proceedings of the first session of the Federal Legislature of the Cook Islands, and also of the Council of Earotonga, and I congratulate you on the tact and knowledge of Native character by which you have influenced their proceedings and have brought matters to so successful an issue. I also congratulate you on the happy termination of the Mangaia difficulty ; and I consider that the ease with which you have obtained payment of the fine levied is to be ascribed to the tact and good judgment with which you conducted the affair. Eeferring- to your Despatch No. 6, concerning the adoption of a Federal flag for the Cook Islands, I have communicated with the Home authorities on the subject, and will await their opinion before assenting to the enactment on the subject. With regard to your Despatch No. 7, concerning visits of Her Majesty's ships to the Islands, I have written to His Excellency the Naval Commander-in-Chief, suggesting that he should move the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to include the Cook Islands within the limits of the Australian Station, in order that they may be periodically visited by one of the men-of-war on the New Zealand Division of the station. A separate despatch, in reply to the congratulations of the Parliament of the Cook Islands on my appointment as Governor of this colony, accompanies this. In reply to Despatch No. 8, relating to the proceedings of Mr. Gore Martin, it is hoped that he will return the authority he improperly obtained ; but as, on the other hand, he may endeavour to carry out his intention of importing labour into Earotonga, the Customhouse authorities here have received instructions to prevent him from chartering a vessel or obtaining a license, and I am communicating with the Governors of the neighbouring Australian Colonies as well as the High Commissioner of Fiji in case he should apply in any of those colonies. I have, &c., F. J. Moss, Esq., British Eesident, Earotonga. Glasgow.
No. 15. His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, Governor of New Zealand, to Tepou-o-te-Eangi, Chairman of the Parliament of the Cook Islands: I bequest that you will express to the Federal Parliament of the Cook Islands my appreciation of the congratulations and good wishes contained in the address, dated 9th July, signed by you as representing the Parliament, and sent to me through the British Eesident. lam very sensible of your kind wishes for the welfare of myself and family, and you may be assured of my hearty desire for the prosperity of your Islands. lam fully satisfied of the sincerity of your expressions of loyalty and affection to Her Majesty Queen Victoria, and you may be assured that she takes as kindly an interest in the welfare of the Cook Islands as she does in all other parts of the world which are under her rule and protection. Wellington, sth October, 1892. Glasgow.
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No. 16. Mr. F. J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed,— Auckland, 21st October, 1892. I have the honour to enclose the copy of a letter from Captain Eooke, of H.M.S. " Champion," respecting certain complaints of Mangaia and Aitutaki, which the Natives of those islands wished him to make to me. Captain Eooke's letter is dated from Tahiti on the 13th September, and was received by me at Earotonga on the 2nd of October by the " Eichmond," by which vessel I came to Auckland. I had previously received from Aitutaki and Mangaia the complaints made to Captain Eooke. The latter reached me on the 23rd September, and were at once replied to, in order that the opportunity of writing by the Mission vessel the " John Williams," then hourly expected, might not bo lost. Aitutaki. Israela, Chairman of the Aitutaki Council, and other Aitutaki chiefs, visited Earotonga on the 12th September, and came to see me. Finding that the reports (similar to those circulated at Mangaia) were without foundation, they left, perfectly satisfied, as your Excellency will see by the Aitutaki letters, dated the 30th September, enclosed herewith. The letters are from Pakoti, Chairman of the Government, and from Te Taura, the Chief Judge of Arutanga. Arrangements were also made to avoid causing unnecessary inconvenience to Aitutaki vessels under the Customs Eegulation No. 5, to which Captain Eooke refers. They were also perfectly satisfied with the new flag adopted by the Parliament. They had recently got into difficulty in Papeete through hoisting their local flag, which the French authorities declined to recognise. Her Brittanic Majesty's Consul, who intervened in their behalf, informs me that the numerous Cook-Islanders resident in Tahiti, who have registered themselves at the Consulate, all express satisfaction with the new Federal flag. If the Union-jack is allowed in the corner, that satisfaction will be much increased, and all grounds for quarrel be removed. The Aitutaki chiefs were also perfectly satisfied with the new postage-stamp, with Queen Makea's likeness—as the elective chief of the Federal Executive—upon it, when informed that, as Chief of the Federal Government, Makea had no right to interfere in the internal affairs of the Island. Mangaia. I enclose, for your Excellency's information, copies of the letters received by me from that Island, with my replies thereto—namely : (1) from Vaipo, one of the most important chiefs, dated the 19th September, with my reply of the 23rd; (2) from certain chiefs, dated the 21st September, with reply of the 23rd; (3) from King John, dated the 21st September, with reply of the 23rd ; (4) from Chief Judges, dated the 18th September, with reply of the 23rd; and have no doubt that, as with Aitutaki, there will be no further trouble when they know that the reports circulated among them are without foundation. The suggestion to place the likeness of Her Majesty Queen Victoria upon the postage-stamps is quite new, and had there been any idea that this would have been permitted, I am quite sure that the Federal Parliament and Queen Makea would have gladly adopted the proposal. The big star in the centre of the official Government stamp was only an artistic fancy. The matter is trifling, but to appease jealousies I had already advised that a new stamp should be made, and one has been sent by the " Eichmond," with all stars alike. I would respectfully observe that Aitutaki has one-fourth of the representation in Parliament; that Mangaia is in a similar position; and that it is of the first importance to maintain the authority of the Parliament as the only means of overcoming the jealousies of the Arikis and between the several islands. These jealousies are old and strong, and are easily operated upon by persons inimical to the success of the Federation. This probably acccounts for the apparent omission, in the interpretation into English of King John's complaints to Lieutenant Nugent, of the erroneous reports on which those complaints were based, and on which such stress is laid in the letter of the 21st September by the " Tiaki Aus," sent by King John to me. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss, His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G., &c. British Eesident.
Enclosure No. 1. Captain Eooke to Mr. J. F. Moss. Sic,— H.M.S. " Champion," at Tahiti, 13th September, 1892. I beg to inform you that on my arrival at Mangaia, on the morning of the 9th instant, one of the lieutenants of this ship landed on the west side of the island and rode across to the Mission buildings on the east side. He delivered your letter to King John, who formally made the following complaints to me through him : (1.) He and his chiefs object strongly to Queen Makea of Earotonga being Queen of the Federation and placed over them. They said they do not know her at all, and are under Queen Victoria only. (2.) He and his chiefs object strongly to having Queen Makea's head on their postage-stamps, and want that of Queen Victoria. (3.) They object to the one big star amongst the seven stars on the official stamp, it being a symbol of the supremacy of Earotonga over the other islands. (4.) They wish to collect the duties on goods coming from ports other than Earotonga, the money to be expended on the island according to the direction of the British Eesident. Lieutenant Nugent informed King John that I would forward their complaints to you, which I now do, observing that they are very nearly the same objections as were made to
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me by the Chiefs of Aitutaki. Also, at Aitutaki they complained about Regulation No. 5, which enacts that Rarotonga will be the only island at which ships can enter or clear in the Cook Group. To me there appears reason for complaint about this rule. If it were possible, the simplest and best plan would be to annex all the islands, give them the British instead of the disputed Federation flag, and put the Queen's head on their stamps. A copy of this letter will, in due course, be sent to Rear-Admiral Charles F. Hotham, C.8., Commander-in-Chief on this station. I have, &c, Frederick J. Moss, Esq., British Resident, Rarotonga. E. Rooke, Captain.
Enclosure No. 2. [Teanslation.] From John Pakoti, Chairman of the Government of Aitutaki, to Mr. F. J. Moss. To F. J. Moss, British Eesident. Aitutaki, 30th September, 1892. Salutations.—We have received your letters. They were read out to the Government and the Council, and they were very pleased with the contents therein. We held a meeting on the 15th of September to elect members for the coming year, as directed by law. We have not settled for payments to be made to the officers as yet. We were interrupted by the vessel loading oranges, but will do so on the 3rd October. Another thing. We have commenced with a Government House, and Daniel has gone with the Amuri vessel to Penrhyn Island to get some lumber for the house. Is it true ? Israela tells me you wish me to come to Earotonga. lam in doubt whether it is true or not. Had you written, 1 would not have doubted it, and would have come immediately at your bidding. Enough. From your friend, John Pakoti.
Enclosure No. 3. Mr. F. J. Moss to John Pakoti. John Pakoti, Aitutaki. Earotonga, 2nd October, 1892. Salutations. —I have your second letter of the 30th September, and am glad to hear that all is well. Israela must have misunderstood me about your coming here. lam leaving for New Zealand by the " Eichmond," and shall be away about two months. Good-bye for the present to you, and to all in Aitutaki. From your friend, Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident.
Enclosure No. 4. [Teanslation.] The Chief Judge, Aitutaki, to Mr. F. J. Moss. Mr. Moss, Governor. Aitutaki, 30th September, 1892. Salutations.—l received your letter of the 24th September, and also one book. I send you a copy of fines levied under the law to the end of this month. As to the trouble about Ellis, there is no one who complains but Arona, his father-in-law. He said Ellis also complained. I sent for Ellis, and he denies ever saying anything to Ellis. Another thing. The police of Arorangi are here after some Aitutaki people who were fined in Earotonga. The Council of Arikis and the Governors will not let them go, and the police of Arorangi are troubled about it. I think they are clear from fines, as the ocean has cleansed them. I now ask you what is to be done ? lam in darkness. You tell me as to what is right. Enough. From Te Tauea, Chief Judge, Arutanga, Aitutaki.
Enclosure No. 5. Mr. F. J. Moss to the Chief Judge, Aitutaki. To Te Taura, Chief Judge, Aitutaki. Earotonga, 2nd October, 1892. Salutations. —I have received your letter of the 30th September. Only the list of fines was in the letter. As to the police from Arorangi: it is for you to do what you think is right. You are the Judge of Arutanga, and no one from any other island can judge or fine people in Arutanga. That is for you only. lam going to New Zealand by the " Eichmond," and will be away about two months. Good-bye to you, and to all at Aitutaki. From your friend, Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident.
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Enclosure No. 6. [Teanslation.] From Vaipo, Chief of Ivirua, Mangaia, to Mr. F. J. Moss. To Mr. Moss, Earotonga. 19th September, 1892. Salutations to you, with God's blessing. I received your letter on the 19th instant, and lam very pleased. The man-of-war called here and landed at our village, and did not go to Oneroa. I was greatly rejoiced on that day. We gave them some food, such as yams, bananas, taro, &c, and they went away at five in the afternoon. We have been doing our work. We commenced on the sth instant. Two weeks have passed, and this is the third week that we have been at work. The worst part is finished. In some parts the banks are 24ft. high. It is now better for travelling. The greater part of our work is done, but I cannot say how long it will be before we have finished. Enough. Salutations. From your friend, Vaipo, Ivirua, Mangaia.
Enclosure No. 7. Mr. F. J. Moss to Vaipo. To Vaipo, Ivirua, Mangaia. Earotonga, 23rd September, 1892. Salutations.—l received your letter of the 19th instant, and am glad the man-of-war called. The weather was very bad after she left, and I feared the captain would not be able to call at Mangaia. He will write to me from Tahiti. The road work you are doing is good. The import duty is for such works. Only the Parliament acting for all the islands together could collect that money. If any one island had tried to collect it, those who bring goods would have refused to pay, and there would have been trouble, as of old with the market, and other things. Other countries now see that the Cook Islands have a proper Government, with proper officers, and are under British protection ; so they will not receive ships unless they bring papers to say that the laws of the Cook Islands have been obeyed, and all import duties paid. That is why the money is paid without trouble now. lam going to Auckland for a few weeks by the "Eichmond." I have written two letters to John. You will see them, and I need not say more. Good-bye, for a time, to you and all your people. From your friend, Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident.
Enclosure No. 8. [Teanslation.] From Chiefs of Te Aus, Mangaia, to Mr. F. J. Moss. To our friend, Mr. Moss. Mangaia, 21st September, 1892. Salutations, with God's blessing. We wish to let you know a few words from us. We do not know if it be true or not, but these are the words: We have heard that there is one Ariki to rule over all the islands—namely, Queen Makea, to rule over Earotonga, Mangaia, Atiu, Mauke, and Mitiaro. That is the report we have heard. If this be true, we now let you know that we cannot agree to it. If she is made Ariki over all we will be in great trouble. We cannot allow Makea (Ariki) to rule over us. We have our own Arikis, also Governors, and Eangitiras of the land, and we shall rule it ourselves. That is our word. This thing we cannot sanction. Another. We have heard that Judge Tepou is Chief Judge over all these islands, that his jurisdiction reaches all of them, and that he is also the head of all the Judges. This we cannot agree to. Another. We have abolished the members for Parliament, and no members are to be sent in future, because of these reports that have arisen lately and that we have heard. We are greatly troubled. We were all right until we heard these reports. Another. When vessels arrive here from New Zealand or Tahiti, we shall levy our own duty upon their goods; and if a vessel arrives from Earotonga and lands goods, we shall also levy a duty upon the same, and keep the money here upon our own island. These are our words for you to know. Another. The division that Tepou gave us to pay—namely, $1,000, we decline to pay. There should have been a meeting of all the islands that a Government House was going to be built. We would then have paid our share. Earotonga has taken it upon herself, and now sends to us to pay a portion. This we do not agree to. Another. Give us our own stamps for our own island, with the sign of the Arikis of Mangaia upon them. Another. The money allotted to us by Parliament—namely, $500. Give it to us, and send it by the first vessel, because it is money that is allotted and settled for us. Enough. Salutations. From your friends, The Tiaki Aus of Mangaia. Their names (taken from John Trego's letter) —namely, Kakerua, Poito, Miringatangi, of Onero; Te Aro, of Tamarua; Kiripaore, of Ivirua.
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Enclosure No. 9. [Teanslation.] King John of Mangaia to Mr, F. J. Moss. To my friend, Mr. Moss. Mangaia, 21st September, 1892. Salutations. —I have received your letter. The man-of-war " Champion " called here on the 10th September. She landed at Ivirua. The landing was much too rough for her in Oneroa. An officer came over to see me, and was the bearer of your letter to me, dated the Bth September. We met, and he asked me how we were getting on. I told him we were in peace; and he said it was good, and told me that you said I was not to listen to any reports that I may hear. I told him what the Taiki Aus have written to you, because that was what passed at our meeting of the Council on the Ist instant. If what I have told him is misplaced and not right, do not be angry with me. Another. For marriages, we have made the fee $5, and for births 25 cents. Deaths we have not charged anything for. Chili money, 5 quarters French money to the dollar. Goods landed here brought by a foreigner are taken to the market, to see that there is no liquor landed. The weights belong to the Au 7, and if used in the market the charges are to be $1. This is all that passed at the meeting on the Ist September. Our meeting on that day was a good one ; they were all of one mind, Vaipo and Turoua, Ata, Kiri-iti, Pute, and Ngariu; not one of them differed in their decisions. Another. The law for divorcing we cannot agree to. If you hear of a Mangaian man or woman getting divorced, do not sanction it. Enough. Salutations to you. Your friend, John Teego. I had forgotten to put the names of the Tiaki Au on the front of this letter. Their names are Kakerua, Poito, and Miringatangi (for Oneroa); Te Aro (for Tamarua); Kiripaore (for Ivirua).
Enclosure No. 10. [Teanslation.] Mr. F. J. Moss to King John (for Chiefs of the Aus at Mangaia). To John Trego, Ariki, Mangaia. Earotonga, 23rd September, 1892. Salutations. —I have received your letter of the 21st September, enclosing one from the Tiaki Aus of Mangaia. You say they are Meringitangi, Kakerua, Poito, Te Aro, and Kiripaore. I know all of these chiefs; but what is the Tiaki Au? Ido not know it, and write to you because it is to you, as Ariki, I must look if anything wrong is done at Mangaia. As to the reports contained in the letter, none of them are true. I ask you now to tell me from whom these reports came. It must have been some idle or mischievous man who wished to do harm, and thought he could make the Mangaina believe anything he chose to say. You should not send me such reports without telling me at the same time from whom they came, and why you thought they might be true. Look at law (No. 1) made by Parliament on the sth of June, 1891. You have it in print at Mangaia. Then you will see what work is done for the Parliament, and what for the Councils in each island. Look at law (No. 4) of the 10th of June, 1891. Then you will see what work the Supreme Court has to do, and that it does not interfere with any of the Courts of Mangaia or other islands. Mangaia, like Earotonga, Aitutaki, and all other islands, makes laws of its own. When were you ever interfered with in doing so ? All you have to do is to make reasonable and just laws, which I can approve when you send them to me. But the import duty and the Post Office are for all the islands, and the Parliament only can deal with them. I have so often made this clear to you, and your members understand it so well, that I am surprised to get such a letter as you now send me. As to sending members to Parliament, Mangaia has a right to send three, and to choose them every year, so that she may have a fair share in making the laws. If the members are sent, well and good. If not, the laws will be made in Parliament without them; and all people must obey the laws whether they live at Mangaia or any other island. The law is good over all. Mangaia has its own Council and Government to do its own proper work—to make divorce laws, or liquor laws, roads and bridges, for the good of Mangaia. But if the Council attempts to charge duties on goods it will do very wrong, and bring punishment on Mangaia. The Parliament only can deal with that. The postage-stamp is the same. Other countries would not take letters unless they have the stamp of the Federation on them. No other stamp is of any use. Parliament decided that the elected Chief of the Federation should be upon the stamp. It was a good decision, and I approved of it at once. Therefore it is law, and will be done. How does this interfere with Mangaia any more than with Aitutaki, Earotonga, or other islands ? No divorce law was passed by Parliament; but the Earotonga Council has since passed one, which I send you herewith. You will see that it has nothing to do with Mangaia, or Mangaia with it. As to the Government House, I have nothing to do with that, and nothing to say about it. As to the money voted for Mangaia out of the import duty, you had full information about it. The money must be spent on some work for good of all Mangaia. Do that, and it will be paid at once, but not till then. As to the liquor law, it is for Mangaia to keep its present law, or make a new one if you wish. If a new one is made, and it is good, I will approve.
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I go to New Zealand by the steamer " Richmond," which is to leave on the 2nd of October, and I shall be away five or six weeks. Do not let the Mangaian people act rashly, or on the advice of stupid and mischievous men, while lam away. If they do they will bring punishment on themselves, for the law is over all, and must be maintained for the good of all. From your friend, Frederick J. Moss, British Resident.
Enclosure No. 11. [Teanslation.] Mr. F. J. Moss to King John. Kia John Trego, Ariki, Mangaia. Earotonga, 23rd September, 1892. Salutations.—This is my second letter to you. The first was about what the Tiaki Au wrote. You were right in telling the officer of the man-of-war what the Tiaki Au had done. Let all say out what they think, so that right may be done, and malice and jealousy be killed. That is the English way. If the weather had been good the captain of the man-of-war would have landed at Oneroa. He will be sorry that he could not do so. The law for registering births, deaths, and marriages is for all the islands alike. The object is to have a true record of these things and of the dates. The fees are to pay those who keep the records. Do not let more be charged than the law has allowed —namely, $2 for marriages. If you do, it will be fining people for getting married. That will be unlawful and wrong. The liquor law is with the Government of Mangaia. Take all care to see that no liquor is secretly landed, and the law thus broken. That is well. But do not let people be more vexed in searching their goods than is absolutely necessary. If you allow this, the law will be hated by many, and they will not help to see it obeyed. The law will then become weak and will fall. The divorce law passed by the Earotonga Council is for Earotonga only. Mangaia will do in this matter as the Mangaia Council may think best. If they make a law, my work will be to say if the law is good or not when you send it to me for approval. If they do not wish any divorce law, that is well. It is for them to say. I am glad to hear that all is peace at Mangaia, and that the Governors and people were of one mind at the meeting on the Ist September. That is good. Each must do his own work and not interfere with the others ; then this peace will continue. The Parliament has its work—namely, to do for all the islands together (the Federation) those things which each island cannot well do for itself. The import duty and the Post Office are two of these things. Who would listen to Mangaia if she acted alone in these matters ? Sticks tied in a bundle are strong, but a stick by itself is easily broken. The Parliament will do its own work, and will not interfere with the Councils and Governments in Mangaia or in any of the other islands. In Mangaia you have a Council and Government. They are one thing. You have Aus They are another. To each there must be a head to make known what is thought or desired, and to whom others may write or speak what they wish to have known or heard. You are the head for the Council and Government of Mangaia. The A us have their heads. The Parliament have chosen Makea (Ariki) for their head. Let each attend to its own work and not interfere with that of others. All will then be well as it is now in Earotonga. The Arikis of Arorangi and of Takitumu were told by all ill-disposed people the same things that some one has told in Mangaia. The Arikis now see that they have all which they had before, and that no one can interfere with them. They are now quite content. They have, besides, a share of the import duty, which they could not have if the Parliament had not been formed. As with Arorangi and Takitumu, so it is with Mangaia and Aitutaki, and all the islands. Tell me always what you and the people of Mangaia have doubts or wish to know about; but if you only send me reports, tell me from whom they come or why you believe them. I say now good-bye to you, and all the Governors and people of Mangaia. I will not be away long, and hope to hear that all continue well when I return. From your friend, Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident.
Enclosure No. 12. [Teanslation.] From the Chief Judges of Mangaia to Mr. F. J. Moss. To Mr. Moss. Mangaia, 18th September, 1892. Salutations, with God's blessing. We, the " Mana of Mangaia," which consists of the Arikis and Governors, and the Judges of Mangaia, held a meeting, and the proceedings we now let you know. 1. If any Earotonga man be married to a Mangaia woman our law does not allow them to be divorced, therefore we cannot allow it. 2. Another thing. If a Mangaian man marries a Earotonga woman, according to the marriage law they cannot be divorced. We will not allow a divorce law for Mangaia. If they are divorced in Earotonga we will not hold it good here. Heed this. 3. If a Mangaian man commits himself, and breaks the law in Earotonga, and is fined under it, if he returns to Mangaia the law is here. It is to receive his fine. Do not allow it to be the same as the Medes and Persians, and do not let our ways differ. We are now under one rule; let us abide by it. Earotonga must not have one rule and Mangaia another. That is what passed at our meeting. We wish you to look well into it. Enough. Salutations. From the Chief Judges of Mangaia.
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[Teanslation.] Eeply to the Lettee from the Chief Judges of Mangaia. Kia John Trego, Ariki, Mangaia. Earotonga, 23rd September, 1892. Salutations.—l send you a letter which pretends to come from the Governors and Judges of Mangaia, but there is no name signed to the letter. Ido not believe the Governors and Judges can know anything about so foolish a letter. What have they to do with Mangaian people who break the law in Earotonga ? Such people will be punished by the laws of Earotonga; and the fines which are paid in Earotonga, of course, belong to Earotonga. I will not receive any letters unless there is a name to them. Let letters be sent through you if those people who write them do not wish to put their own names to the letters. From your friend, Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident.
No. 17. Mr. F, J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed, — Auckland, 11th November, 1892. I have the honour to enclose a letter received by me from Queen Makea to be transmitted to your Excellency. In her letter to me enclosing the above, dated 4th November, Queen Makea says : " I take this opportunity of letting you know with what great pleasure I have received your letter, enclosing that from His Excellency the Governor, Lord Glasgow, thanking me on behalf of Queen Victoria for my letter of condolence to Her Majesty." I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss, His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G., &c. British Eesident.
Enclosure. To His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, Governor of New Zealand. Youe Excellency,— Earotonga, 4th February, 1892. I was very pleased at having received your letter sent to me through the British Eesident, Mr. Moss, which you wrote by command of Her Imperial Majesty Queen Victoria, thanking me on her own behalf, and also on behalf of the Eoyal Family of England, for my letter of condolence to them, and I shall never forget her kind expressions contained therein. By command also of Her Majesty Queen Victoria you expressed the hearty wishes of the Eoyal Family of England for the continued welfare of myself and people, for which valued expressions I am deeply grateful. Makea, Ariki.
No. 18. Mr. F. J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed, — Auckland, 11th November, 1892. I have the honour to enclose a letter from Tepou-o-te-Eangi, Chairman of the Parliament of Cook Islands, in reply to one I had the honour of transmitting by your Excellency's command by the last mail. In his letter to me enclosing the above, dated the 4th November, Tepou says: " I have received your letter acquainting me with the wishes of His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, Governor of New Zealand, to read his letter at the next meeting of Parliament. Good! Good! lam pleased, delighted at this word from you." I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss, His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G., &c. British Eesident.
Enclosure. To His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, Governor of New Zealand. Oh, Goveenoe, — Earotonga, 4th November, 1892. These are my words of good feeling to you, and also to our Most Gracious Sovereign Lady Queen Victoria. I most heartily thank you for the desire you express for the prosperity of the Cook Islands, and also for the great interest the Queen takes in these our lands. My feelings of joy and thankfulness are best expressed in the Song of Solomon (chap, ii., v. 8, 11, 12), and my greatest wish is that the present new state of affairs will continue. Tepou o te Eangi, Chairman of the Parliament of the Cook Islands.
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No. 19. Ebpokt on the Trade of the Cook Islands for the Ybam ending 31st December, 1892. Sliipping and Navigation. The entries during the year have been (see Table I.); Inwards, 95 ; tonnage, 17,132 : outwards, 93 ; tonnage, 16,977. The few entries of French vessels noted in the table are of small schooners from Tahiti. The American vessels are small Californian-built schooners trading among the islands of the group and those adjacent, but owned by traders in Earotonga. The native vessels are owned by Cook Island natives or natives of Penrhyn Island; they are Californian built, and purchased by them for trading among the islands and Tahiti. The movements of the few vessels owned by the Natives have been much more active lately, the entries having increased from three in 1890 to thirty-one in 1892. These vessels do not exceed 40 to 45 tons, and are too small to trade with New Zealand; but the natives of Ngatangiia (in Earotonga) are building a schooner of about 100 tons, which they expect to launch in April, and purpose running to New Zealand. The monthly mail-service with New Zealand continues to be carried on by the steamer " Eichmond." She completes the round voyage to Tahiti in twenty-eight days, calling occasionally atone or other of the Cook Islands on the way. Of late she has called at Earotonga both on the outward and homeward voyage, but apparently is only to do so in future on the way back from Tahiti to Auckland. The following is the published time-table for 1893: —
Leave Auckland. Arrive Tahiti. Arrive Rarotonga. Arrive Auckland. January 14 ... January 27 ... February 6 ... February 13 February 17 ... February 28 ... March 7 ... March 16 March 20 ... March 31 ... April 7 ... April 16 April 20 ... May 1 ... May 8 ... May 16 May 20 ... May 31 ... June 6 ... June 15 June 19 ... : June 30 ... July 7 ... July 16 July 20 ... i July 31 ... August 7 ... August 17 August 21 ... j September 1 ... September 8 ... September 17 September2l ... I October 2 ... October 6 ... October 17 October 21 ... November 2 ... November 6 ... November 17 November 20 ... December 1 ... December 5 ... December 16
The only charges levied on vessels frequenting Earotonga are : Pilotage, $6 = 18s., for every vessel under and up to 50 tons; $1 = 3s. for every additional 10 tons. Eoyalty, $4 = 125., payable by every vessel using the harbour at Avarua and Avatiu (Earotonga). This goes to the owners of the land around, as the harbours have belonged to them from time immemorial. Vessels anchoring outside pay neither pilotage nor royalty unless the services of the pilot be specially requested. The pilot and his boat's crew receive no regular pay, and depend on their receipts for services rendered. Exports and Imports. The currency of the Islands is still the Chilian dollar, other South American dollars being all included in the one term. The intrinsic value varies continually, and they can only be exported at considerable loss to any other place than Tahiti, where they also are extensively used, though the legal currency is French money. The practice has always been to calculate this dollar, in account, at 45., but in actual transactions it passes nominally at 3s. The imports, being entered at their cost in the place whence shipped, and this being usually in pounds sterling, are valued at 4s. to the dollar. The exports, on the other hand, are entered at their local cost, and in their case the dollar is converted at 3s. The only Federal tax is an import duty of 5 per cent., levied uniformly on all articles imported into the Cook Islands. As the duty is paid in Chilian dollars, it is practically reduced (from the causes above stated), in nearly all cases, to 3f per cent. The taxes levied by the local Governments in the several islands vary in kind, but are in all cases insignificant in amount. The exports for the year (see Table II.) were £20,336, against an export for 1891 stated at £21,242. It must be observed that no regular statistics are available for accurate comparison prior to the establishment of a Government in June, 1891. There is, however, no doubt of a very material deficiency in the coffee export last year. This year it promises to be abundant, not only from the very promising condition of the crop, but from its alternating in past years with good and bad yields successively. The chief exports for the year were: Coffee, £4,827 ; copra, £7,586; cotton, £2,304; pearlshell, £2,835; oranges and other fruit, £1,496 ; limejuice, £818; beche-de-mer, £337. Included in the exports are pearl-shell, copra, &c, to the value of £4,945 (see Table II.), which are the produce of Penrhyn and other islands not included in the Cook Islands Federation. Of the total exports, there were sent to New Zealand, £17,630; to Tahiti, £2,706. The chief articles sent to Tahiti were : coffee, £1,359; copra, £629 ; cotton, £625. So far as the figures for 1891 can be ascertained, there has been during the year 1892 a fallingoffin the total export of coffee of not less than £3,500. In cotton the decrease has been about £500. The poor crop of coffee for 1892 will be probably made good by a correspondingly good yield this year ; but the low price of cotton makes it hardly worth picking in many cases. Oranges also show a falling-off of nearly £1,000; but copra, limejuice, and other articles, have increased, and reduce the total falling-off in the year's exports to less than £1,000.
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The imports for the year (see Table III.) were only £16,249, showing an apparent falling-off of £7,868 as compared with those of the previous year, 1891. This is attributed to various causes, the chief being the heavy stocks of goods in hand at the end of the year 1891 and the very light stocks now held. This view is supported by a comparison of the imports during the December half-year of 1891, which were £13,568, with those for the corresponding half-year of 1892, £7,998. The falling-off was chiefly in clothing, piece-goods, provisions, hardware, and lumber, all of which are now very lightly held. The exports supply the almost sole purchasing-power of the islands, and so long as they flourish the imports must on the whole keep pace with them. In connection with this subject, it is also to be observed that vessels have, during 1892, been purchased and paid for by the Natives, and other expenditure has been incurred, which must be met from the proceeds of the exports, though the official statement of imports is not swelled thereby. The imports for 1892 were received as follows : From New Zealand, £10,995 ; from Tahiti, £5,254. The chief imports from Tahiti were : Clothing, £238; piece-goods, £2,357; provisions, £337 ; breadstuffs, £502 ; groceries, £252 ; timber, £194 ; hardware, £373 ; tobacco, £132. The falling-off in the imports has been proportionally much larger with the imports from Tahiti than with those from New Zealand. The figures are as follows : Imported for December half-year : From New Zealand, 1891, £7,806 ; 1892, £5,293. From Tahiti, 1891, £5,762 ; 1892, £2,705. While for the whole year 1892 the imports from Tahiti were only £5,254, which is more than £500 less than those for the closing half-year only of 1891, the imports from New Zealand, on the other hand, for the whole year 1892 were £10,995, against £7,806 for the closing half-year of 1891. In connection with the imports, I may observe that the timber trade was at one time of considerable extent, and large quantities of kauri were sent from Auckland to Earotonga, whence it was distributed to other islands. This trade has been lost through the bad quality of the kauri timber occasionally sent. The other islands are now supplied with Californian timber from Tahiti, which was imported to the value of £5,260 during the year 1891. In the same way Tahiti, during 1891, imported fifteen thousand two hundred and thirty-one pounds' worth of flour and breadstuffs, from which it supplies the other islands. The New Zealand flour has not been equal to the Californian, but the biscuits are good and are obtaining a good name, which a few shipments of bad quality would soon lose. In salted and preserved meats and provisions of all kinds the superiority of New Zealand is undoubted, but the trade in these articles is also being pushed in the Islands from California, and none but really good sound provisions should be sent. The Natives in all the islands use large quantities of tobacco, but prefer a strong, rank-flavoured kind, which they grow partly for themselves, and for the supply of which they all trust chiefly to Tahiti, where it is grown in considerable quantities. The postal-rates charged at the post-offices in the Cook Islands are as follows: Within the Federation—Letters, 1-Jd. per half-ounce or fraction of half-ounce; if unclosed, Id. per ounce or fraction of an ounce. Post-cards, Id. each. Newspapers, free. Beyond the Federation—Letters to all countries, a uniform rate of 2-J-d. per half-ounce or fraction of a half-ounce. Newspapers, Id. each. The postages are to be paid in English money, but Postmasters are authorised to receive Chilian money at 2s. 6d. to the dollar if English money is not to be obtained. The stamps at present in use are Id., ljd., 2d., and 10d., with post-cards Id., but a new issue is to take place in April next. The denominations will be the same, with an addition of a stamp atsd. The trade in postagestamps has become so wide that this information seems to me worth inserting in a trade report from these islands. I should like to have been able to add some information as to the import and export of specie (Chilian dollars) in the Cook Islands, but the only figures available are not complete, and would not be reliable. They show an import of $5,613, against an export of $8,733. This would leave a balance of export to the extent of $3,120. Considering that the exports of produce so largely exceed the imports for 1892, this additional export of coin is not likely to be correct. Feedeeick J. Moss, British Eesident.
Table I.—Shipping and Navigation. Report of all Shipping at the Port of Rarotonga, Cook Islands, during the Year ending 31st December, 1892.
Nationality. No. Sailing. Tonnage. Sailing. Steam. Men-of-war. Total. No. Tonnage. No. Tonnage. No. Tonnage. 3ritish French American ... Native 39 3 8 29 3,190 180 336 1,626 Inivards. 15 9,420 1 2,380 55 3 8 29 14,990 180 336 1,626 Total 79 5,332 15 9,420 1 2,380 95 17,132 British French Lmerican ... Native 37 2 7 31 3,035 120 294 1,728 Outwards. 15 9,420 1 2,380 53 2 7 31 14,835 120 294 1,728 Total 77 5,177 15 9,420 2,380 93 16,977
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Table II.— Exports from the Cook Islands for the Year ending 31st December, 1892.
1891.—N0 regularly-kept statistics are available before the establishment of the Government in June, 1891. They ware simply gathered from private inquiry. For the June half-year the exports were thus placed at $36,968 ; December half-year showed 8104,647 : total, 8141,015 = £21,242. Included in the above are the following, the produce of Penrhyn, Manihiki, and other islands outside the Cook Islands :— Lb. $ Pearl-shell 99,072 18,896 Copra 578,864 13,587 Beche-de-mer ... ... ... ... ••• 6,858 462 Other articles ... ... ... ... ••• ••• 16 Total ... ... ... ... £4,945 = $32,961
Table III.—Imports into the Cook Islands for the Year ending 31st December, 1892.
Regular statistics, as stated in note on exports, only available since June, 1891. Estimates of imports for June half-year were 852,745. The returns for December half-year were $67,840. Total, $120,585 = £24,117. Of the above imports, goods to the value of $12,383 = £2,477 were free of duty, being for reshipment to islands beyond the Cook Islands.
No. 20. Mr. F. J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 6th February, 1893. I have the honour to enclose a copy of a complaint and protest received by me from the Eev. W. Lawrence, Eesident Missionary of the London Missionary Society in Earotonga, respecting the working of the divorce and liquor laws in this Federation. Also copies of the following : No. 2,
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June Quarter. Sept. Quarter. Dec. Quarter. Total 1892. March Quarter. Articles. Q'ntity. Value. Q'ntity. Value, Q'ntity. j Value. I Q'ntity Value. Q'ntity. Value. lofiee .. ..lb. lopra .. .. lb. lotton .. .. lb. jimejuice .. .. gal. (ranges (about 300 each) case 'earl-shell .. .. lb. ieche-de-mer .. lb. 'ungus .. ..lb locoanuts .. .. No. Sananas .. .. bunch 'ineapples .. .. No. Ither articles 1,450 343,409 37,058 3,445 122 36,653 7,812 ft 302 7,984 9,152559.93C 6,258 74,476 595 7,02C 183 1,05C 8,757 37,585 325 1,957 7,984 559,930 74,476 7,020 1,050 37,582 1,957 583 $ 1,515 14,707 1,930 1,671 1,606 6,486 120 46 70,781 410,209 25,850 $ 14,504 9,316 3,663 76,699 785,176 21,779 11,657 1,900 17,864 16,980 1,117 14,400 1,660 8,436 $ 15,798 17,395 3,507 3,184 2,533 2,747 1,320 45 179 415 411 300 156,914 2,107,634 99,163 22,122 6,251 99,072 34,989 1,968 39,600 1,891 8,636 $ 32,179 50,570 15,358 5,450 8,571 18,896 2,251 105 489 492 416 795 3,179 6,973 8,240 268 2,500 4,249 900 486 14 32 22,640 231 58c 278 .. 77 .. c.nr 200 5 360 20C 105' .. 30 Total $26,032[ .. $28,446 $33,260 .. $47,8 $47,834 $135,572 £20,336 $54,478 =£1 ,172. $81,094 =£12,164.
March Quarter. June Quarter. Sept. Quarter. Deo. Quarter. Total. 1892. Articles. Value. Value. Value. Value. Value. Clothing Piece and fancy goods Provisions (salted and preserved) Breadstuffs (including biscuits) Groceries ... Spirits Wines $ 227 2,986 484 1,273 738 178 12 195 60 2,075 581 1,061 $ 1,233 10,874 3,076 2,778 3,595 586 95 343 1,164 3,125 627 3,888 $ 550 9,608 2,124 1,806 2,417 285 7 127 876 2,739 306 1,876 $ 1,635 5,735 1,985 1,954 1,924 572 10 101 406 982 608 1,356 $ 3,645 29,203 7,669 7,811 8,674 1,621 124 766 2,506 8,921 2,122 8,181 Beer Timber (including manufactured) Ironmongery and hardware ... Tobacco ... Other articles Total... 9,870 31,384 22,721 17,268 81,243 ~£16,249 — $41,254 = £8,251 $39,989 = £7,998
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my reply to Mr. Lawrence respecting divorce; No. 3, my reply to Mr. Lawrence respecting liquor law ; No. 4, my reply respecting alleged breach of liquor law at Aitutaki; No. 5, my reply respecting alleged export of liquor to Humphrey's Islands (Manihiki), and to Penrhyn. I also enclose No. 6, copy of a semi-official note received by me on the 4th from Mr. Lawrence, in which that gentleman states that he will resume the correspondence after the departure of the mail, and that he sees nothing in my replies to make him believe that his information is incorrect. I therefore await the reply, but entertain a different opinion to Mr. Lawrence, and fear that he has been, on many important points, much misled. I may state, for your Excellency's further information, that the import of spirits into Earotonga during the eighteen months in which the Government has been in operation, and for which statistics are therefore available, has been : For September quarter, 1891, £55 ; December quarter, 1891, £46; March quarter, 1892, £30; June quarter, 1892, £117; September quarter, 1892, £57 ; December quarter, 1892, £115. In the early part of 1891 a proportionately large quantity of spirits remained in hand from the free imports for sale among the Natives before the present law came into operation. At the present time there is in hand a considerable proportion of the import for the December quarter, 1892. The importation of wine and beer is insignificant, being £24 and £135 respectively for the year 1892. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss, His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G., &c. British Eesident.
Enclosure No. 1. Sic, — Mission House, Earotonga, 31st January, 1893. It is my painful duty to have to lay before you a formal complaint—a protest concerning the conduct of Tepou-o-te-Eangi, District Judge of Avarua, and Judge of the Supreme Court of the Cook Group Federation. The ground of my complaint is that he took it upon himself, either acting in his capacity as District Judge of Avarua or Judge of the Supreme Court, to grant divorce to a large number of people, some of whom are natives of Earotonga, others are natives of Mangaia and Aitutaki, and two foreigners resident in Avarua, a white man and a Chinaman. I would point out that when these divorces were granted the divorce law passed by the Earotonga Council was not in force; also, that, according to the custom of this island and the other islands of the group, it was not the province of the District Judges to grant divorces; therefore the conduct of Tepou-o-te-Eangi, in granting divorces to these people, is, in my opinion, altogether illegal and arbitrary. I have further to complain that, when the Native teachers in connection with the London Missionary Society refused to remarry people so divorced, on the ground that these divorces were illegal, Tepou-o-te-Eangi arbitrarily and illegally married people so divorced by himself. In my opinion this conduct of the District and Supreme Court Judge has struck a blow at the sacred institution of marriage in this island the effect of which will be lasting for evil, unless something be done at once. I would particularly call your attention to the fact that divorce was granted to people from Aitutaki and Mangaia even after these islands had declared emphatically, by the vote of their representatives in the Federal Parliament, that they did not wish for a divorce law. Nor were any of these cases of such a nature as the law of England, Scotland, or any of the colonies would recognise as cases in which a Divorce Court might grant relief. I take, as an example of a case of this kind, that of Joe, a native of Aitutaki, married to an Aitutaki woman, with whom he lived for a number of years. Divorce was not granted in this case as relief to an injured husband, as might be supposed. I knew this man's wife intimately for five years; she was a church member, and a teacher in my school; there was not the slightest fault to be found with her moral character during the five years I knew her. The husband, on the other hand, neglected his wife more or less. On what grounds could this man obtain a decree of divorce ? On no ground whatever but that of his own infidelity, and that he was tired of his wife. To give divorce on these grounds is, in my opinion, contrary to both the law of God and man. From inquiries I have made, I find that this conduct of her husband in securing divorce and remarrying has had the result of driving this woman to evil ways. Not only in Avarua, but in Ngatangiia have divorces of the same kind been granted by the District Judge of that settlement, or by some who signs himself Ngatamariki, Parliament. I presume this gentleman is the member of Parliament for this district. I therefore call upon you, as there is no Court in which the question of the legality or illegality of these decrees can be decided, to say whether divorces granted under these circumstances are legal; and further, if legal, are persons remarried by the District Judge of Avarua or by that of Ngatangiia, legally married ? It may be that in their own districts these Judges may be held to have acted legally ; if so, will you say whether they acted legally in dealing with cases from other islands of the group? I have further to call your attention to the conduct of the Native authorities concerning the liquor law of the Island of Earotonga. As I understand the law, any Native desiring to buy spirituous or fermented liquor must first obtain a permit for the same from the Queen, or Chief of the district of the island in which he resides. This law at first acted as a salutary check on the drinking habits of the people, as the authorities were chary of granting permits, being well convinced of the evils resulting to their people. In some evil moment the authorities hit upon the idea of charging a fee of 20c. for each permit, and since they began doing so the amount of liquor consumed by the natives of this island has been steadily increasing ; and if the permit system is not put on a more satisfactory footing the last state of Earotonga will be worse than the first. This fee could not have been placed as a check upon the sale of liquors, because the authorities have unlimited power, and their refusal to issue permits was the check relied upon to control the traffic among the Native population. In my opinion the
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control of the liquor traffic ought to be far more stringent than it is, as far as the people of the island are concerned. The authorities, by seeking in this way to make money out of the system— money of which no account is rendered, and which does not go to the revenue of the island (as far as I can learn), have proved themselves unfit to deal with this matter. In support of this contention I would urge that the Eev. John Chalmers, whose approval of the permissive liquor law was accepted by many at the time the law was made as a strong argument in its favour, came to the conclusion, after further thought, that a mistake had been made, and that nothing but total prohibition for the Natives would do in Earotonga. But whether the law be amended or not it ought to be administered as it was passed, and no one ought to be allowed to add or take from it. I would also call your attention to the fact that in Aitutaki, where there has always been a total prohibition law, there has been established a bond in which liquor is kept, and out of which it is sold to the people of that island. There ought also, in my opinion, to be some means of placing a check on the liquor that is exported from Earotonga to Humphrey's Islands and to Penrhyn Island. I am &c, W. N. Laweence, Eesident Missionary. Frederick J. Moss, Esq., British Eesident, Cook Group, South Pacific.
Enclosure No. 2. Eeveeend Sic, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 3rd February, 1893. I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 31st January, in which you make " a formal complaint and protest concerning the conduct of Tepou-o-te-Eangi, District Judge of Avarua, and Judge of the Supreme Court," for his action in connection with divorce, and also call my attention to the conduct of the Native authorities concerning the liquor law of the Island of Earotonga, and other matters. It will be more convenient to deal with each of these matters separately, and I therefore confine myself in this letter to your complaints respecting divorce, which I will take seriatim. They are : —■ 1. That Tepou took it upon himself, either acting in his capacity as District Judge of Avarua or as Judge of the Supreme Court, to grant divorce to a large number of people, some of whom are natives of Earotonga; others are natives of Mangaia and of Aitutaki, and two are foreigners resident in Avarua, a white man and a Chinaman. That these divorces were granted before the present divorce law was passed by the Earotonga Council, and that, according to the custom of this island and of the other islands of the group, it was not in the province of the District Judge to grant divorce; therefore that the conduct of Judge Tepou was altogether illegal and arbitrary. I have communicated with Judge Tepou, who tells me that in no case has he acted as Judge, but always as the servant of Queen Makea, with her special knowledge and at her special request. I find, further, that there has never been divorce, in the ordinary sense of the term, in these islands. No Court was ever held, and no record has ever been kept. The original practice was simply for the missionary or the Native teacher to remarry persons at his own discretion, sometimes consulting the Ariki and sometimes not. The only recorded law upon the subject was that " when a man ran away from his wife, and was absent five years, the wife might be divorced and marry again." This law, from its rigidity and unsuitableness to the circumstances and character of the people, fell quickly into desuetude, and has long been a dead letter. As Tepou puts it: " The law was only made on paper. People asked to be married again to some one else. If leave was granted, there was an end of it." You will pardon my remark that under these circumstances the terms "illegal" and "arbitrary," used in your letter, seem to me quite inapplicable to anything done under such a system. 2. That when the Native teachers in connection with the London Missionary Society refused to marry people so divorced, on the ground that their divorces were illegal, Tepou-o-te-Eangi arbitrarily and illegally married people so divorced by himself. To this Tepou replies simply that he has never married any one in his life. 3. That in your opinion this conduct of the District and Supreme Court Judge has struck a blow at the sacred institution of marriage in this island, the effects of which will be lasting for evil unless something be done at once. Judge Tepou's replies to the two previous complaints (Nos. 1 and 2) seem to me to render any reply to this unnecessary. 4. You particularly call my attention " to the fact that divorce was granted to people from Aitutaki and Mangaia, even after those islands had declared emphatically, by the vote of their representatives in the Federal Parliament, that they did not wish for a divorce law." You add that few of these cases were of such a nature as would have obtained divorce in England, Scotland, or any of the colonies, and finally quote, as "an example of a case of this kind," that of Joe, an Aitutaki man, married to an Aitutaki woman, with whom he had lived for a number of years. You further say that his wife was a woman of most exemplary character, and that the only ground on which the man (Joe) " could obtain a decree of divorce " would be " his own infidelity and that he was tired of his wife." Judge Tepou replies to this, and the statement of his having granted divorce to a "large number of people, some of whom are natives of Mangaia and of Aitutaki" (contained in paragraph No. 1), that the case of Joe, cited by you as an example, is the only one in which an Aitutakian has been dealt with, and that Kaena, a Mangaian, is the only one in which a man from Mangaia has been dealt with. He further informs me that Joe had been living in Earotonga for two or three years, and that when Joe was remarried by the Native teacher in Earotonga, on his (Tepou's) authority (acting for Makea), the first wife of the said Joe was cohabiting, and had been for some time cohabiting, in Aitutaki with a native of Tahiti. Also, that the members of the Federal
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Parliament from Aitutaki were in Earotonga at the time (about July, 1892), and agreed with what was done. Also, that Kaena was the only Mangaian, and that he had been living for ten or twelve years in Earotonga. Tepou says :" My reason for saying he should be married again was that one was as bad as the other. Both were always going wrong and always quarrelling. At last the wife ran away altogether. Then I agreed, and Kaena was married to another by the Native teacher. This was about June last." Tepou further says that it must not be forgotten " when men and women live together without being married, our law, made by the first missionaries and still in use, fines them often and heavily. By being married they save this fine. That is the reason why many are so anxious to be remarried." 5. Lastly, as to the two foreigners referred to in paragraph No. 1. Tepou replies : " One was a Eussian. He and his wife came together to me. They were at first married by mistake. The Eussian did not, at the time they were married, know what he was doing. They had never lived together, and never met without quarrelling and trouble. This had lasted about five years, and I thought it time it should be ended." The other foreigner, Tepou says, was the Chinaman. " His wife had run away with another man—a German—to Mauke. The German was very fond of her, and had married her at Mauke. So I agreed that the Chinaman should be married again, and he was accordingly married by the Native teacher in Earotonga." Tepou further holds that all these cases have been settled in accordance with the customs of the island for the last fifty or sixty years. In conclusion, permit me to point out that under the new divorce law passed by the Earotonga Council on the 23rd August last, divorce can in future only be granted by the three Judges sitting formally together at stated periods and keeping a record of the proceedings. To their judgment the Ariki of the district must consent, and the remarriage can only take place on presentation of a certificate that divorce has been granted. The cases of which you complain were all prior to the passing of this law, which, I may also add, will apply only to people belonging to Earotonga or married in Earotonga, Aitutaki, Mangaia, and the other islands will each continue to be ruled by its own law and customs till the Council of such island sees fit to make any new provision similar to that made in Earotonga. I have not made any inquiry into the complaint of divorces of the same kind granted by the District Judge of Ngatangiia, &c, as it would have delayed my reply to your letter. If, however, you desire that inquiry should be made, I should be obliged by your letting me have more specified information upon which the inquiry could be based. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss. The Eev. W. N. Lawrence, Eesident Missionary, L.M.S., Earotonga.
Enclosure No. 3. Eeveeend Sic, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 3rd February, 1393. Eeferring to your letter of the 30th January, in which, among other matters, you call my attention to the conduct of the Native authorities concerning the liquor law of the Island of Earotonga, I have the honour to inform you that I have made as full inquiry as the limited time at my command, on the eve of the departure of the New Zealand monthly mail, would permit, and acquaint you with the result. With reference to the fee, 20c. (or in English coin 7d.) charged by the Native authorities for each permit given to a Native, as the authority for the Licensing Officer to issue to him any spirituous or fermented liquor, I have only for the present been able to make inquiry in Earotonga. Tepou-o-te-Eangi tells me that he has been in the habit of issuing such permits at the request of and acting for Queen Makea, so far as the Arutanga district is concerned. I will quote his own words : " I have charged a fee of 20 cents for issuing permits. That is quite true. It has been our custom since the missionaries established law among us to charge fees for the work done by the Judge or police, and to take any fines levied upon people brought up for breaking the law. It is the only pay ever given to the police, the Judge, or anyone else. But it is not true to say that I have always charged 20 cents. 1 have given many permits, most of them without any fee at all. I charge it mostly when they come too often, so that they may not come again too quickly. Ido not give these permits as a Judge, but acting for Makea, Ariki, who asked me to take in hand the work of looking after these permits for her." 2. You complain that since this system of charging for permits began, the liquor consumed by the Natives of this island has been steadily increasing. To this Tepou replies :"It is about a year since the charge was begun. That was in Natangiia. I cannot say whether the Natives use more liquor or not, but this I can say, that formerly under the old law there was great drunkenness among all the Natives ; but now under the new law no Native has been brought before me by the police for being drunk with imported spirits for the whole two years; unless he has drank the spirits on board some vessel in the harbour. Then they have taken too much—but not on shore. Very few have got drunk even on board ship. As to the bush beer made secretly by the Natives, that is a different thing. It is on that the Natives sometimes get drunk, but they are brought up and fined for that whenever they can be caught. The new law is good, very good. Under the old law the people were quarrelling and fighting constantly in their own houses; and there were many places where they could buy liquor whenever they liked, and drink it on the place where they bought That is ended now, and quarrelling is much more seldom known." Having so far quoted Tepou-o-te-Eangi, as the Native authority in Earotonga to whom your letter refers, permit me now to reply for myself to the following statement in your letter : (3.) "If the permit system is not put on a more satisfactory footing the last state of Earotonga will be worse than the first." (4.) "That the Earotonga authorities, by seeking in this way to make money out of the system, money of which no account is rendered, and which does not go to the revenue of the island (as far as I
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can learn), have proved themselves unfit to deal with this matter." The last state of Earotonga cannot be worse, and I doubt if it can ever be so bad, as the first. At the end of 18901 arrived in Earotonga. The law had for years been total prohibition. Unsuited to the people and unsupported by them it had fallen into complete desuetude. Drunkenness was universal, and nineteen known publichouses and shanties were selling liquor by the glass openly and at all hours. I had not been two hours in the place when I met the Eev. J. Chalmers, then on a short visit from New Guinea to this Island. Within five minutes he was speaking strongly to me on the liquor question. A day or two previously he had been invited to a Native-school examination and school-feast at Arorangi. So great, so open was the drunkenness, that he indignantly left and told the Native people that it was an insult to have asked him. That was the condition of affairs in 1890 with swarms of policemen. (I should say probably one-tenth of the whole population were acting in that capacity, for every church member was ex officio also a policeman.) Surely with their aid, and with the energetic help of the Eev. Mr. Hutchin, the then resident missionary, and a very ardent prohibitionist, the law should have been enforced, if ever it could be. I had come to inquire only into the difficulties between Europeans and the people of Mangaia, and had no right to interfere in other matters, but was pressed on all sides to advise what should be done. After very careful consideration the present law was framed. The provisions were somewhat novel, but after an experience of two years I heartily support the statements of Tepou as to the great, the plain, the undeniable improvement that has been effected. I believe, Sir, that in this you will concur. How rarely, if ever, is a drunken Native now seen, unless in the bush, from secretly making and drinking liquor from oranges, pineapples, or bananas. For my own part, I know of no habitual drunkenness even among the drinkers of bush beer, and to them the police alone can look. Although the fines levied upon delinquents become the private property of the police, and they may therefore be regarded as likely to exercise due vigilance, I find that only one conviction for drinking bush beer has taken place during the last four months. For being drunk with imported liquor, except in rare cases of landing from shipboard, mentioned by Tepou, I find that there has been no conviction for the last two years. The consumption of imported spirits among the Natives has probably increased, for many of them are sailors, and have been abroad, and accustomed to buy liquor in other lands. But whether that be so or not, I am bound to say that I regard Earotonga as essentially a sober place, and that drunkenness is very rare among its people. Between its condition now and in 1890 there cannot be the least comparison, and I see no present reason to fear a return. As to the charging of fees for the issue of permits to the Natives, I have nothing to say in its defence, and shall be glad to see that it is abandoned. But that it should not appear 'in the same light to a Native is intelligible, when we remember that for fifty or sixty years the Natives have been accustomed to look to this as the proper mode of payment for official services. The whole of the police, the Judges, and judicial and prison establishments have for all those years depended for payment on what they could extract as fines for offences—seldom criminal, but almost invariably against the moral law. With this notion ingrained into them by the system of administering justice, it is not surprising that they should have applied it to the minor work of issuing permits to purchase liquor. But I cannot share with you the opinion that the authorities have thereby proved themselves unfit to deal with this matter. I look rather to an indefinite sense of right, which they have always exhibited. This has saved them from,complete demoralisation by their wretched judicial system in the past, and holds out, to my mind, no mean promise for the future. Bad as the charging for these permits may be, I no more believe that they will be issued merely for the fee than that the administration of justice has been in the past, and still is influenced, solely by a regard for the fines and profit which depend upon conviction. I have always been anxious to see a change to a better and more regular system. But that will not be gained by taking an exaggerated view of the present evil. The first step, in my humble opinion, is to imbue the people with some notion of the public duty, and thus make practicable the imposition of direct taxes, by which Judges and police and other local officials could be placed in a more fitting position. Until then, improvement must be gradual and slow. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss. The Eev. W. E. Lawrence, Eesident Missionary, L.M.S., Earotonga.
Enclosure No. 4. Eeveeend Sic, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 3rd February, 1893. With reference to the portion of your letter of the 30th January in which you call my attention " to the fact that in Aitutaki where there has always been a total prohibition law, there has been established a bond in which liquor is kept, and out of which it is sold to people of that island." I should be obliged for further information, as I cannot make out from my correspondence with that island what the position really is. I cannot, in the first place, trace any prohibition law as in force at the declaration of the Protectorate, though I have always been informed that there was such a law. No law has been passed since the declaration of the Protectorate ; and Ido not know how a bond could have been established without such a law. How is the liquor sold to the people of that island? I have never heard of such a sale. I heard only of a small quantity being landed (two cases of gin it was said), but that the greater part was sent off again to the vessel by the local Government. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss. The Eev. W. E. Lawrence, Eesident Missionary, L.M.S., Earotonga.
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Enclosure No. 5. Eeveeend Sic, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 3rd February, 1893. With reference to the shipment cf liquor from Earotonga to Humphrey's Islands and Penrhyn Island, referred to in your letter of the 31st January, I cannot find that any is so shipped and Landed in those islands. They are beyond my district; but if you will kindly supply me with the information that leads you to believe that any has been landed on those islands, I shall be much obliged, and will transmit it to His Excellency the Governor of New Zealand, who will, no doubt, see that action is taken by the proper authority thereon. I have, &c, Eev. W. E. Lawrence, Earotonga. Feedeeick J. Moss.
Enclosure No. 6. Deae Sic, — Mission House, Earotonga, 4th February, 1893. I have to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 3rd February in answer to mine of the 31st January. I will, with your permission, take the opportunity of returning to this matter again after the departure of the New Zealand mail, preparing for which fully occupies your time, as well as my own. I may be permitted to say that lam not at all convinced by the reply I have received. It does not, in fact, contain anything that leads me to doubt that the information on which I based my complaint and protest is perfectly correct. I have, &c., Wm. E. Laweence, Eesident Missionary, L.M.S., Earotonga. Frederick J. Moss, Esq., British Eesident, Cook Group, South Pacific.
No. 21. Mr. F. J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, Bth March, 1893. I have the honour to enclose a copy of a letter received by me by the steamer " Eichmond," yesterday, from the Governor of the French Establishments in Oceania, asking for the extradition of a Native charged or chargeable with a criminal offence in Tahiti, and supposed to be now within the Cook Islands. I also enclose a copy of my reply, which I am enabled to send to Tahiti to-day by the sailing of the Native schooner " City of Arorangi," in which the Tahitian native is said to have escaped to the Cook Islands. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss.
Enclosure. Sic, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, Bth March, 1893. I have the honour to acknowledge receipt of your Excellency's confidential letter of the 3rd hist., asking for information respecting Taati-a-Tavi, a native of Tahiti, charged with a criminal offence and supposed to have escaped to one of the Cook Islands. Also, if in that case I should be prepared to agree to his extradition. In reply, I have the honour to inform your Excellency that, so far as I can learn, the said Taati was landed at Atiu, one of the islands of this Protectorate. Any demand for his extradition would be heard by the Supreme Court at Earotonga, and should in the first instance be addressed to Makea, Ariki, Chief of the Cook Islands Government. I readily undertake to see that Makea receives any application which your Excellency may see fit to entrust to my care for her; and, further, that in coining to a decision, the Supreme Court will be guided by the principles and practice that rule in similar cases within Her Britannic Majesty's possessions. I beg that whoever may be entrusted with the application for extradition be provided with copies of the treaty, and all necessary information for the guidance of the Court, as such information could not readily be obtained here. Agreeable as the visit of a French man-of-war would be personally, I suggest to your Excellency that it might be misunderstood by the Native Government, unless deferred until after the application for extradition had been dealt with in due course of law. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss, His Excellency M. Th. La Cascade, British Eesident. Governor of the French Possessions in Oceanic, Tahiti.
No. 22. Mr. F. J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 6th May, 1893. In my despatch of the Bth March I informed your Excellency of the application made by the French Government in Tahiti, respecting the extradition of one Taati, charged with forgery and embezzlement of public money, and who was believed to have taken refuge in the Cook Islands,
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1. I have now the honour to report that on the 23rd April a formal application was received by me. for Queen Makea as Chief of the Federation, asking the extradition of the said Taati. The application was supported by full and strong evidence, and certificates of birth and baptism, to show that he was a French subject, and thus came under the treaty. The accused is a half-caste, and was employed in the Government offices. The offence with which he is charged was that of receiving public money in the exercise of his duties, embezzling the said money, and issuing receipts, to which he attached the signature of the chief of his department. 2. There is, of course, no extradition treaty between France and the Cook Islands, and I presume the Cook Islands would not be competent to make treaties except through the protecting Power. But I represented to Queen Makea the discredit that would be brought upon the Cook Islands if they were allowed to become the refuge for persons who might escape from the neighbouring French colonies, and advised that no effort should be spared to bring the accused before the Supreme Court of the Federation. I also explained that if the accused had been a Cook Islander the treaty would except him from extradition, and he could only be tried by his own people. 3. Queen Makea entered cordially into my views, and at once accepted my advice, which will also, I trust, meet with your Excellency's approval. 4. The accused had taken refuge with his wife's relations, in the Island of Atiu. The Aitutaki Native schooner, "Te Upoko Enua," arrived at Earotonga on the 24th, and was at once chartered to proceed with a messenger, carrying a warrant from the Supreme Court for the apprehension of Taati. The schooner left the next day. 5. Yesterday the schooner returned. She had been detained five days at Atiu, during which many meetings were held. The majority of the chiefs were in favour of surrender; but the influence of Taati's wife's relations was strong, and Parua, one of the Arikis, took him under her special protection. Finally, he was allowed to escape into the interior of the island, where there are many caves, in which concealment is easy with the connivance of any one outside. 6. The schooner has been re-chartered, and left again this afternoon, taking special messengers who are to bring both the Ariki, Parua, and Taati before the Court in Earotonga. I enclose, for your Excellency's information, copy of a letter which I addressed to the remaining Arikis, and sent by her. 7. There is so large a party against Parua that I am not without hope of seeing her and Taati in Earotonga in about a week. If, however, she continues obstinate, I shall have to go to Atiu. There will be no difficulty in the Federal Government depriving Parua of her position as Ariki in the present case, with the powerful support they would have from the other Arikis and chiefs ; but it seems to me that the opportunity should not be lost of obtaining, if possible, a voluntary submission to the Supreme Court, and to the Government of the Federation. I have, &c, His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G., &c. Feedeeick J. Moss.
Enclosure. [Teanslation.] Salutations, — British Embassy, Earotonga, 6th May, 1893. I am very sorry to hear that Parua, Ariki, has defied the law. The Supreme Court does not belong to Earotonga. It belongs to all the islands, to Atiu and all. Parua is throwing dirt at her own Court. By sheltering Taati she is bringing disgrace on all her own people both here and in Tahiti, where so many of them are living. Taati is not an ignorant man, and he knows the trouble he is making. The law must be obeyed. Therefore, the schooner "Te Upoko Enua" is now sent a second time. It is for you, the Arikis, to do what is right. See you that Parua, Ariki, and Taati come in the schooner to Earotonga to answer to the law of all the islands—that is, of the Federation. It will deal justly with them ; I will answer for that. If Taati has not done wrong in Tahiti, the law will protect him here. If he has done wrong he ought to bear the penalty like a man, and not cast the burden on others. If you now let Taati escape to other lands, you will all—■ Arikis and people of Atiu—do wrong, and bring great trouble on Atiu. Enough. From your friend, To Ngamarua, Ariki, and Eongomatane, Ariki, Atiu. Feedeeick J. Moss.
No. 23. Mr F. J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 7th June, 1893. Eeferring to my Despatch No. 6, of 6th May (No. 6/93), respecting the application of the French Government in Tahiti'for the extradition of Taati a Tavi, I have the honour to report that the Native schooner "Te Upoko" returned from Atiu on the 11th May, bringing the said Taati. The Ariki, Parua, refused to come. Taati was brought before the Court on the 12th, and, after being fully supplied with the evidence sent from Tahiti, was remanded till the 15th to give him an opportunity of considering the same. The case was heard on the 15th, and ended in the accused undertaking to proceed to Tahiti by the steamer when she arrived from New Zealand, and to meet the charges against him. The Judge reported to this effect. The steamer did not arrive till the 29th, and in the meanwhile the accused (who is, I find, a Tahitian Maori, and not a half-caste, as reported in my despatch of the 6th May) met with great sympathy from the Maoris of Earotonga, as the first refugee they had been called upon to surrender. Their sympathy was stimulated further by some few of the white men, who held loudly that the
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extradition was wrong in the absence of a treaty with the Cook Islands. Taati was thus shaken in his intention to surrender himself voluntarily; but Makea, as Chief of the Government, remained firm, under my advice, and he was accordingly sent by the " Eichmond " on the 29th, in charge of an agent of the Cook Islands Government. I enclose, for your Excellency's information, a letter written by Makea to the Governor of Tahiti, which fully explains the position taken up by her in the case. The Ariki Parua has been fined in the sum of 380 dollars, and is not to be recognised as an Ariki till the fine be paid. The fine includes the cost of the second charter of the Native schooner and other outlay caused by her resistance to the law, and will, I have little doubt, be paid in good time. Trusting that the course taken in this, the first application for extradition, will meet with your Excellency's approval. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss. His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G., Governor of New Zealand.
Enclosure. Teanslation of Queen Makea's Lettee. Sic,— Earotonga, 29th May, 1893. I received your Excellency's letter of the Bth April, asking that Taati a Tavi should be sent to Tahiti to be tried for forgery. Many people from different countries have thus come to the Cook Islands to seek refuge among the Maori, but this is the first time we have been asked to send any back to his own place. The law of the Maori does not put guilty persons into gaol, like the law of France, and many other countries. He who does wrong to another is fined, and also compelled to make full restitution. Taati a Tavi is married to a woman of Atiu, and it was among her people that he took refuge in these islands. I speak of these things that your Excellency may understand how sore are the hearts of the relations of the wife of Taati, and of the Maori people, at the thought of his being taken from his wife and child, and, if found guilty, of being put into gaol for many years, or perhaps, sent to New Caledonia. Willingly would they pay back the 2,000 francs if he took them; but that, I am informed, the law of France would not allow. In my desire to do what is thought right in England, and to do our duty as neighbours of Tahiti, I directed the Judge of the Supreme Court of the Federation to cause Taati to be brought before him, and to hear what he might have to say. After so doing, to make a report to me giving his opinion whether Taati should be put on his trial for the offence charged against him. Taati was sent for accordingly from Atiu and brought before the Court. The Judge has reported to me that it is not necessary for him to give any opinion, as Taati has decided himself to go back and be tried in Tahiti. There is no gaol or other place to keep Taati securely, and he is waiting to be sent by the " Eichmond " to Tahiti in charge of an officer of the Court, Eaeu, who will see that he surrenders himself to the authority appointed by your Excellency in Tahiti. I have only to ask your Excellency one favour. If Taati is found guilty, be as merciful to him as your law allows. The friends of his wife, and the Maori people, are in great grief lest he should be imprisoned for a long time and thus be separated from her and from his child, who may then see him no more. From your friend, Makea, Ariki, Chief of the Government of the Cook Islands. To the Governor of the French Islands, Papeete.
No. 24. Mr. F. J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed,— British Eesidency, Earotonga, 7th July, 1893. I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of Your Excellency's despatch of 10th June, respecting the projected quartering of the Union-jack upon the Federal flag for the Cook Islands. Your Excellency's suggestion as to the mode of making the shield and device rendera its adoption quite practicable, and will, I have no doubt, be at once agreed toby the Parliament. The eight coloured copies shall then be sent as requested. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss, His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G., British Eesident. Governor of New Zealand.
No. 25. Mr. F. J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed,— British Eesidency, Earotonga, 7th July, 1893. Eeferring to my Despatch No. 8/93 (7th June), I have the honour to inform Your Excellency that the Ariki Parua, of Atiu, has paid $200 towards the fine of $380 imposed upon her for disobeying the order of the Supreme Court in connection with the extradition of Taati a Tavi, at the request of the Government of Tahiti, and has promised to pay the balance in a short time. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss, His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G., British Eesident. Governor of New Zealand.
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No. 26. Mr. F. J. Moss to His Excellency the Goveenoe. My Loed, — British Eesidency, Earotonga, 7th July, 1893. I have the honour to inform Your Excellency that the Federal Parliament met on the sth instant at Earotonga. The whole of the members were present, and the new Parliament House was opened with a plentiful feast given by Tepou-o-te-Eangi, the elected President of the Parliament at its past meetings. All the Arikis in Earotonga at the time attended the opening. The Eev. W. Lawrence, resident missionary and agent of the London Missionary Society, was also invited, and kindly assisted officially at the opening. The occasion was marked by the best feeling among the members, and among the chiefs and others who were present from the various islands of the Federation. In bringing together those who have been so bitterly divided by ancient feuds and jealousies, the Federal Parliament is quietly doing one of its best works. The building of this house will also domicile the Parliament, which will in future meet in a place belonging to all the islands, instead of each island contending for the privilege in turn. Tepou-o-te-Eangi was again elected as President and Chairman, and the following papers (enclosed herewith) were laid upon the table : (1) Opening message from the Arikis (the Government); (2) Statement of Eevenue for the year ; (3) Statement of Expenditure for the year; (4) Statement of Account for the year; (5) Statement of Unauthorised Expenditure for the year. The only business done was the adoption of an address of condolence with Mrs. Ballance on the death of her late husband, whose interviews as Native Minister with the Arikis, Makea and Ngamaru, when they were in Auckland in 1885, were largely instrumental in obtaining the establishment of the Protectorate. At each of these meetings the members manifest a more active and intelligent interest in the work they have in hand, and are gradually adopting regular forms in the conduct of business. The keeping of a record of their proceedings is in itself a very great improvement, which they thoroughly appreciate, and which they are extending to the Councils in the different islands. They are also adopting a more regular system of accounts and finance in the local Governments; and I look to the Federal Parliament as their educator in these matters. The most difficult task is to teach officials not to interfere with each other, not to exceed their duties, and to perform them at proper times and places. Instances of such excess have been frequently brought before me; but I have only recently discovered that in the Aitutaki Council free speech has been effectually crippled, by the practice of the Chief Judge (who is also a chief of high rank) fining heavily, on the spot and without trial, any member who made what he considered to be " a lying statement," for the making of which by any person their laws have long provided such penalties. The most curious feature was that the members themselves seemed to consider the Judge quite right; though they complained bitterly that what he sometimes called " lying statements " they themselves believed to be truths. This was the only ground on which they objected to the practice. The unauthorised interference of members and officials with work with which they had nothing to do has been a source of much trouble, but the true position is being gradually understood and acted upon. The elections for Aitutaki in the present Parliament were keenly fought. In the absence of a regular system, the right to the three seats was disputed by contending parties. Deputations were sent to me ; but I insisted on a settlement among themselves, or they would lose their representation in the present Parliament altogether. They have settled amicably; and the eighteen or twenty chiefs and people who formed the deputations are content to wait here in order that they may see the working of the Parliament. While here they are considering the draft of a law which I have proposed to them for the regulation of future elections. This they will submit to their Council when they return, and, if passed, the example will no doubt be followed in other islands. Every Aitutaki man being a landowner in his own right, the people of that island are more in a position to regulate the suffrage than they are in other of the islands. The circumstances of the islands in this and other respects differ greatly, and any attempt at a uniform law would create trouble and confusion. The Parliament adjourned till Tuesday the 11th, in order that the members might consider the papers laid before them, and consult together as to the needs of their respective islands. I have, &c, Feedeeick J. Moss, His Excellency the Earl of Glasgow, G.C.M.G., British Eesident. Governor of New Zealand.
Enclosure No. 1. Madam, — Earotonga, sth August, 1893. We, the Parliament of the Cook Islands, have heard of the death of your husband, the Premier of New Zealand, and of the grief of the people of that country at his loss. Madam, it was to Mr. Ballance, chiefly, that we owe the blessing of British protection which we now enjoy. It was he who raised the question when Native Minister in New Zealand, and saw the Arikis, Makea and Ngamaru, when they visited that country in November, 1885. Madam, we can only offer you our respectful and cordial sympathy, and say in the words of Scripture, " Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted." By order of the Parliament of the Cook Islands. Mrs. Ballance, Wanganui, New Zealand. Tepou-o-te-Eangi, Chairman. 6—A. 6.
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Enclosure No. 2. From the Goveenment to the Paeliament of the Cook Islands. We welcome you at this, your third meeting. We are glad to be able to do so in a Parliament House which belongs to all the Islands, and which has been paid for from the Federal revenue. The revenue for the year ending on 30th June, 1893, including balance in hand on Ist July, 1892, has been $7,542 75c. The expenditure, including subsidies and other sums to be yet paid, will be $7,426 55c. Full accounts will be laid before you for your information. The estimates for the coming year will also be laid before you. It will be for you to say whether they shall be accepted as they are, or whether you think that alterations should be made in them. The imports for the year have been $110,795. The exports for the same period have been $129,103. Detailed statements of imports and exports will be placed before you. Last year the coffee crop was poor, and the prices for copra and cotton were very low. This season the coffee crop is very good; and we hope for larger returns of imports and exports, and consequently for a larger revenue in the year to come. We are glad to hear that coffee is being more largely planted in the other islands, as well as in Earotonga. Coffee must be regarded as the staple and most profitable article that can be produced in these Islands. The Government of New Zealand kindly agreed to have the new stamps, which you authorised last year, executed in New Zealand, and they will soon be ready for issue. The old stamps that may be left on hand will then be destroyed. ■ The British Government have agreed that we may place the Union-jack in the upper corner of the Federal flag adopted by you in the last Parliament. They require that a distinctive mark shall be placed in the centre of the Union-jack, and you will be asked to decide what that mark shall be. The Premier of New Zealand, the Hon. John Ballance, has died since the last Parliament met. Mr. Ballance took great interest in these Islands, and it was chiefly through him that we enjoy the blessing of British protection. We shall propose to you a resolution of sympathy with Mr. Ballance's wife in the great loss which she and the people of New Zealand have suffered. We have not prepared any new laws for your consideration. The Federal Government is still young, and we think the fewer laws that are made the better. The Councils will know better how to make the laws which each island may require; but you will be asked to consider the spending of money to introduce insect-eating birds, and for other like purposes that concern all, and which you can do better than each island can do for itself. We are informed that the London Missionary Society contemplates the early establishment of a central training-school in the Cook Islands for the teaching of English, and that eighty boys and girls will be taught in the school free of charge, and be selected from all the Islands. We think this one of the best things that could be done for the people, and are sure that it will have your cordial support. It is proposed that the buildings shall be put up by subscription in the Islands. The necessary teachers will then be sent and paid by the Society. We shall bring proposals before you for a contribution from the Federal revenue, not exceeding one thousand dollars a year, towards the maintenance of the pupils in the school when it is established, as your share in this good work. We pray that the Almighty may bless your deliberations, and that your meeting in this Federal Parliament may lead to a more perfect union among the different islands; for we are now all living under one flag, and are one people. Makea, Ariki, Earotonga, sth July, 1893. . Chief of the Government.
Enclosure No. 3. Statement of Eevenue for the Year ending 30th June, 1893. $ c. $ c. Import Duty ... ... ... ... ... 3,755 46 Post Office and Stamps ... ... ... 2,30193 Less paid to New Zealand Government towards cost of new stamp ... ... ... 666 66 1,635 27 Miscellaneous, Shipping fees, &c. ... ... .... 112 38 $5,503 11 J. H. Gaeniee, Collector of Eevenue. I have examined the above accounts, and compared them with the vouchers, and hereby certify that they are correct. Earotonga, 3rd July, 1893. J. Scaed, Auditor.
A.—6.
Statement of Expendituee for the Year ending 30th June, 1893. $ c. 1. Fixed appropriations—Payment of Members ... ... 360 00 2. Collection of Eevenue ... ... ... ... 320 00 3. Supreme Court ... ... ... ... ... 120 00 4. Post Office ... ... ... ... ... 130 00 5. Shipping Master ... ... ... ... ... 80 00 6. Paymaster and Clerk to Government .. ... ... 150 00 7. Public School ... ... ... ... ... 00 00 8. Auditor ... ... ... ... ... 100 00 9. Expenses of the Chief of the Government... ... ... 200 00 10. Interpreting, and Clerical assistance ... • ... ... 180 00 11. General Contingencies ... ... ... ... 273 47 12. Inspection of Works ... ... ... ... 125 00 13. Subsidies to Local Governments ... ... ... 2,500 00 14. Ngatipa ... ... ... ... ... 150 00 15. Building a Parliament House ... ... ... ... 750 00 16. Unauthorised, per account ... ... ... ... 788 08 $6,226 55 I have examined the above accounts, and compared them with the vouchers, and hereby certify that they are correct. Earotonga, Ist July, 1893. J. Scaed, Auditor. Statement of Account for the Year ending 30th June, 1893. 1892. Beceipts. $ c. $ c. July 1. Balance in hand, per account ... ... 2,039 64 1893. June 30. Eevenue, per account, from Ist July, 1892, to date ... ... ... ... 5,503 11 7,542 75 Expenditure. Expenditure from Ist July, 1892, per account. ... ... 6,226 55 1,316 20 Liability. Subsidies to Councils, due 30th June, 1893. ... ... 1,200 00 Balance ... ... ... $116 20 Statement of Unauthoeised Expendituee, Ist July, 1892, to 30th June, 1893, laid before Parliament in accordance with the Act of 1892. 1892. Service. $ c. August 5. To H. Nicholas, account buildings at Ngatipa ... ... 88 78 1893. March 20. „ Wildman and Lyell, stationery, &c. ... ... 94 14 29.,, H. Nicholas, buildings at Ngatipa ... ... ... 30 00 29.,, Donald and Edenborough, freight ... ... ... 20 78 April 6. „ Carpenters at Parliament House ... ... ... 150 00 „ 8. „ W. Macalister, repairing flagstaff, &c. ... ... 31 90 June 8. „ E. Armstrong, painting Parliament House windows, &c. 614 E. Piltz, provisions to workmen at Parliament House ... 168 00 „ 15. „ 11. Nicholas, furniture, Parliament House ... ... 33 00 „ 30. „ Carpenters at Parliament House „.. ... ... 92 50 „ 30. „ Societe Commerciale, on account of timber for Parliament House ... ... ... ... ... 12 84 „ 30. „ Advance on account of Parua, Ariki; charter of schooner "Te Upoko Enua" to Atiu. ... ... ... 60 00 $788 08 Approximate Cost of Paper.—Preparation, not given; printing (1,375 copies), £23 ss.
By Authority: Samuel Costam-, Government Printer, Wellington.—lB93.
Price, Is.
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Permanent link to this item
https://paperspast.natlib.govt.nz/parliamentary/AJHR1893-I.2.1.2.7
Bibliographic details
FEDERATION AND ANNEXATION: PACIFIC ISLANDS. PROCEEDINGS OF THE BRITISH RESIDENT, RAROTONGA. [In continuation of Parliamentary Paper A.-3, 1892.], Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1893 Session I, A-06
Word Count
33,070FEDERATION AND ANNEXATION: PACIFIC ISLANDS. PROCEEDINGS OF THE BRITISH RESIDENT, RAROTONGA. [In continuation of Parliamentary Paper A.-3, 1892.] Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1893 Session I, A-06
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