CORRESPONDENCE.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2398, 13 January 1909, Page 6

CORRESPONDENCE.

[Correspondence on public matters is welcomed at all times, but it must be distinctly understood that this journal is in no way associated with the opinions of its correspondents.] POLYGAMY. [To the Editor.] Sir, —In yesterday’s issue your correspondent “Lav” writes on the above. . He points out the inconsistency between the- treatment meted out by the law to the man in Dunedin and that given to the prophet ißua. He says: “If polygamy means a plurality of wives in the case of the white man, it surely must mean the very same thing with the Maori.” That is no doubt so, but the probability is that in the case of the white deception is its accompaniment, but in the case of the Native it is an open, mat-ter-—in short, a straight deal. “Law” impugns the action of the Native Minister regarding Rua. Some of us may regret the Taihoa policy of the Native Minister re throwing, open Native lands for sale or lease, hut I venture to think that he lias treated Rua in a good, eommonsense manner. Give a man credit when it is due. It would not ( d° L> relax all the restraints on plural marriages or there would he too many cruel frauds prepetrated upon women,. but possibly.some 'modification of the present laws on the subject might prove to be of benefit to the country. I may inform “Law” that probably but very few. really dpsir© a rigid enforcement of antipolygamic laws—whatever be the dictum of the religion at present dominant. As to Rua himself, lie at least shows all a good example in some respects because of his strict sobriety.— I am, etc.. : - .. ; “FREi;. SPIRIT,”