The Pamphlet Collection of Sir Robert Stout: Volume 10

Conclusion

Conclusion.

Three courses open.

The Imperial Government have now three courses practically open to them, one of which they must follow. They may retain the management of New Zealand native affairs in their own hands, supplying the force required to retrieve past failures and to give effect to their administration in future, and depending on the liberality of the colonists for the continuance of a contribution from them to the extent of their means. Or they may insist upon abandoning a work, which in their hands has got into a state of serious entanglement, to the colonists, adhering to the terms last pro-pounded by the Secretary of State, and so alienating the colonists and dooming the aborigines to anarchy and degradation. Or they may effect an honourable transfer of their troublesome duty, offering as the basis of an arrangement with the colonists efficient aid for a term of years in money if not in men.

It may be proper to add that I was personally a close spectator and attentive observer of the events which I have tried to narrate, but a participator in them only to a very small extent. As a colonist of the Southern Island, I have been able to speak freely about native affairs without fearing to be accused of interested motives. And being permitted to be on terms of personal friendship with Colonel Gore Browne, for whom I have always entertained a sincere respect and esteem, there has been nothing further from my desire than to make him a scapegoat for the absolution of the colonists.

I am, my Lord, Your Lordship's very faithful servant,

Crosbie Ward.

London

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