E—No. 9. Sec. IX.

It will not I think be necessary to make any further appointments for Rangitikei or for Tiirakina. The mass of the people there are loyal, and the number proposed will, I trust, be found sufficient. (And) 3rd. That Assessors appointed under "the Resident Magistrates Courts Ordinance" be re-appointed under the " Native Circuit Courts Act," except in cases where this would be repugnant to the majority of the Natives. The subject of payment to Jurors (under the " Native Circuit Courts Act") was mooted both at Manawatu and Rangitikei, and I promised the Natives to bring the subject under the notice of the Government. I cannot, however, recommend any payment of this kind unless His Excellency would be inclined to make this a part of the uniform system ; for if conceded here, it would immediately be claimed as a precedent in other districts. It is the general desire that the Village Runanga shall consist of all the adult males resident within the limits of its authority ; and I am myself of opinion that, under the present circumstances of the district, this would be the best mode of constituting it. The Rangitikei Natives are very urgent that I should fix my abode among them, and have petitioned His Excellency on the subject; but I have determined on stationing myself, for the present at least, at Te Awahou (Manawatu), as this possesses the advantage of central position with easy access to all parts of the Circuit. It commands the whole of the river—is only eight miles from Porotawhao (the head-quarters of the King party)—is midway between Otaki and Waikanae on the one side, and Rangitikei and Turakina on the other—and is equidistant from the extremities of my district, Paekakariki and Wangaehu. I think my Circuit may be better worked from this point than any other. A few months' experience will enable me to determine this. Walter Buller, R.M. The Hon. The Minister for Native Affairs, &c, &c, &c.

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REPORTS OF OFFICERS : WELLINGTON WEST COAST DIST.