■G.—2

20

Hon. Mr. Ballancc : I have just one word to say in reply, if you will permit me. This meeting, from the beginning up to now, has been to me a very gratifying one. I have enlarged my circle of friends amongst the Native people, and I feel sure that it will be attended with great results. Much has been said about my kindness in coming amongst you. I think I have only done my duty. It appears to 'me that it is the duty of a Native Minister to go amongst the people to discuss their grievances and trv to remedy them—to understand their wants and try to supply them. While that is my duty, I also, of course, have a feeling of love for the Native people. I never thought that they were so kind-hearted a people as I have found them, although I knew them to be a kindhearted people before ; it is to me, therefore, a solid pleasure to work for their welfare ; and while I live, whether I am in office or not in office, I shall always try to remain the true friend of the Native people. Once again I thank you all for your many kind words, and now bid you farewell. The meeting then terminated. [Approximate Cost of Paper.—Preparation, nil; printing (1,375 copies), £12 3s. 6dJ

Authority: Geobge Didsbuby, Government Printer, Wellington.—lBB6,