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Proceedings of of the Kohimarama Conference, Comprising Nos. 13 to 18 of the "Maori Messenger."

Reply from Ngatitama

page 31

Reply from Ngatitama.

Friend, Mr. McLean,—

I find no fault with the Governor's address. I consider that his words are perfectly right. We are not able to criticize or to say that they are wrong. This is what I am thinking. I have not as yet heard any good words from any of the Chiefs whom you and the Governor have called together. This is my word—hearken, both of you. What I desire is, that you should urge those whom you have appointed to the conduct of affairs to be diligent, and that you should continually remind them of their duties, year by year, and month by month, that they may not continue ignorant, but that they may zealously emulate their elder brethren, the Pakehas. And do not you let them be few in number, but let there be many of them, that the voice of some one or other of them may strengthen their work. By this means will the people be drawn to your good things.

O Governor,—This is what I desire: that some regulation should be made for my place, commencing at Whakatu (Nelson), and reaching as far as Aorere (Massacre Bay). I say also, let me frequently hear from you, that I may be put in remembrance year by year, and month by month, lest working long by myself [left to myself] I should forget my duty. While his supporters are at at hand, a man will not be idle. Enough.

From Wiremu Te Puoho.