how he exposed his life on every occasion and stirred the natives to enthusiasm by his presence — how one pah after another fell before their assault, and how finally, in spite of the mutinous spirit of the younger chiefs, he succeeded in taking the Native Contingent through the memorable bush march at the rear of Mount Egmont.
It may readily be understood that such an example was not without its effect upon a people who almost adore personal courage, and that the expressions of devotion to their "fighting superintendent" are perfectly genuine and sincere. The benefit to the Colony of the personal services briefly alluded to above, may be inferred from the following passage in one of the published despatches (Feb. 12th, 1866) of Major-General Sir Trevor Chute, K.C.B.:—
"It is hardly possible for me to convey to your Excellency how much I feel indebted to Dr. Featherston, Superintendent of this Province, for his able advice on all subjects connected with the Maoris. He accompanied me throughout the campaign, sharing all our dangers and privations, and was present at each engagement and assault. I am particularly obliged to him for the zeal with which he has at all times laboured to obtain information of the movements and positions of the rebels, which it would have been almost impossible for me to acquire without his assistance."
1. Letter from Wi Tako Ngatata.
(Translation.)
To Dr. Featherston.
O father! Salutation! Long may you live! May
