SUICIDE OF A NATIVE.

Manawatu Times, Volume V, Issue 179, 10 December 1881, Page 2

SUICIDE OF A NATIVE.

On Saturday mornirrg last it wa« rumored that a Native had poisoned himself at Matakarapa, and enquiry proved the minor was true. From information we have gathered, it appears that a Native named Hi ra te Vapa, who lives at the Kainga on the opposite b:mk of the river was tound lying very ill on the grave of his late wife Arita Natana, earfy on SiaV tar Jay morning last. JDr. Bockstrow was at once sent for from- Poxtor>, when it was found that the Native haci taken poison. This he himself admitted, »»d further stated tbit be ba<3 taken, it porpoaely as he vri.*bed to die. Btnetics were at once administered, ami Dr Rockstrow started for his stomach primp, but before he could retnro,. the unfortunate Maori expired. It appeared the deceased's wife died a few -weeks ago, and he had been iv great grief since the event and no doubt tbat is the cause which incited him to commit tlie rash- act. Before dying the Native told those about him that apakehaat Foxton had given him- the poison. The facts of the case have been wired to tbe Coroner, but it is not probable than an inquest will be held, as the Natives are averse to a post mortertb ex-" amlaation, and .are firmly of opinion that the poison was taken knowingly by. the mati. — Foxton HeraW.