life to re-people the island; if they were able to bring Taraia to life again he would believe them, but, if not, they must see it was full time to cast off their silly delusions. In no instance had they seen people who had trodden the paths of death return again to re-people the earth. Idle rumours were in circulation that an attack was to be made on the Ohinemuri natives by Major Ropata of Ngatiporou. Such a report was without any foundation. The present visit was merely paid to exchange friendly sentiments; and, as the Governor was so seldom a visitor to Ohinemuri, he expected to hear Te Hira, who was present, give expression to his views and feelings.
The Governor then spoke to the following effect:—Salutations to you, my friends. I thank you for the welcome you have given me. This is my second visit to Ohinemuri, and I have received a hearty welcome on each occasion. My first visit was made four years ago; and your celebrated chief Taraia then welcomed me in person. He was a great chief in war, and a great friend to the pakeha in peace. He was known to all the tribes throughout the island as the principal chief of Hauraki. I heard with great pain of his death, and am now come to join you in lamenting him. I have arrived, accompanied by chiefs from different parts of the island, who, like me, have heard of his death and regret it. I have now been through all the native districts from Wellington northwards. I have seen the Ngatikahungunu at Napier, the Ngatituwharetoa at Taupo, the Ngatirau-
