15

A.-Ia

During the forenoon, a sniall canoo was seen paddling towards the " Luna" from the opposite or north arm of the harbour, bringing the notoriously turbulent chief Tapihana, who1"look a conspicuous part in the Taranaki war, and afterwards iv planning aud effecting the escape from Kawau (Sir Geor.ge Grey's island) of himsolf and other prisoners who had been captured by General Cameron at Eangir 1 during the Waikato war. After some slight hesitation, Tapihana stepped on board, and addressed a long speech to the Native Minister and the chief Wi Tako, a Member of the Legislative Council, who formed one of His Excellency's party. Tho Native Minister replied to Tapihana, after which Wi Tako made a most effective speech, pointing out the advantages of peace and friendly intercourse with the Europeans. As tho discussion progressed, Tapihana's tone, from being somewhat defiant, became very friendly and temperate, and ho requested that the " Luna" should visit his side of the harbour, where the Native Minister had, through messengers, been arranging an interview with Tv Tawhiao, who resides there, and who sent a special invitation to the Native Minister. On landing, Mr. McLean and Wi Tako were first welcomed by Honi Wetere, and as they approached the entrance to tho King's residence were met in a frank and cordial manner by Tv Tawhiao, tho eldest son of the King, a fine young man of about nineteen years of age. An interesting and friendly conversation took place, frequent references beiug made by the chiefs to Tv Tawhiao's grandfather, Potatau, the first King, and to his friendship with Mr. McLean. When the meeting was over, Tv Tawhiao accepted an invitation to come on board the "Luna," and was accompanied by a few of his chiefs, all of whom were introduced to His Excellency, who spoke in friendly and assuring terms to tho young chief and his companions. Tv Tawhiao at first displayed considerable emotion, no doubt feeling that by this Act he had broken down the barriers of isolation which had so long separated the Europeans from his people. After luncheon with His Excellency, Tv Tawhiao and his friends visited all parts of the "Luna," and seemed much interested and full of inquiry as to the working of tho engines aud other particulars new to them about the vessel. It is quite evident, from the interest displayed by the Natives, that the accidental visit of tho "Luna" has been productive of results tho importance of which it would at present be difficult to estimate. Tv Tawhiao was most anxious that the departure of the vessel should be delayed until his father could be communicated with. Finding that it was impossible to comply with his request, the Native Minister promised to return shortly to Kawhia to meet the King and his adherents. As the " Luna" left, three English cheers were given by the Natives from the shore, which were responded to from the vessel. A recent telegram from Waikato states that the Natives generally arc gratified at what has taken place, and are very desirous to attend the proposed meeting, which, it is expected, will pave the way for effecting more permanent friendly relations with the King party, who now form the only section of the New Zealand tribes that have preserved their ancient manners and customs, and independence of European progress and civilization. The Native Minister begs to be permitted to congratulate His Excellency on this remarkable and auspicious event occurring at the commencement of his Administration. Native Office, Wellington, 7th April, 1873. Donald McLean.

No. 10. Copy of a DESPATCH from the Officer Administering the Government of New Zealand to the Eight Hon. the Earl of Kimberley. (No. 32.) Government House, Wellington, My Lord, — New Zealand, 10th April, 1873. I have the honor to inform your Lordship that, since my arrival at the Seat of Government, a change has occurred in the Ministry of the Colony. The Hon. Mr. Fox, who had recently consented to accept office, and had placed his valuable services at the disposal of His Excellency Sir G. F. Bowen to meet a temporary emergency only, tendered on the 4th instant his resignation of his office of Colonial Secretary, his seat in the Executive Council, and the Premiership of the Ministry. At my request he was so good as to give me his advice, acting on which I sent for the Hon. Mr. Vogel. That gentleman has accepted the Premiership, and nominated to me the gentlemen whose services I have accepted, and who, together with himself, form the present Ministry, as follows, viz.:— The Hon. Mr. Vogel, Premier, Colonial Treasurer, Postmaster-General, and Telegraph Commissioner. The Hon. Mr. McLean, Native Minister. The Hon. Mr. Eiciiardson, Minister for Public Works. The Hon. Mr. Bathgate, Minister of Justice and Commissioner of Stamps. The Hon. Mr. Eeynolds, Commissioner of Customs.