1814-1853 - The Missionary Register [Sections relating to New Zealand.] - 1816 - Proceedings of the Rev. S. Marsden, p 459-471

I am happy to inform you of my safe return from New Zealand to Port Jackson, after fully accomplishing the object of my voyage to that island, having been absent four months; and have the honour to transmit to you the following account for the information of the Society, which I am persuaded will be very gratifying to all who love Zion, and are interested in the extension of Christ's Kingdom and the salvation of the Heathen Nations.

I communicated to you, on a former occasion, my full intention of accompanying the Settlers to New Zealand; in order to aid them in their first establishment, and to give them as much influence as possible among the Natives. I had, for many years, studied the character of the New Zealanders, having generally some living with me; and was under no apprehension of danger from them, so far as my own personal safety, and that of those who were about to go with me, were concerned. Many in New South Wales were of opinion, that we should never return; judging from the horrid massacres that nave repeatedly been committed in that island, by the Natives: but these persons had not sufficiently considered the provocations given to the Natives by Europeans; as it is well known, that the Europeans have thought it no crime to murder and plunder these islanders upon the most trivial occasions, and often from mere wanton cruelty.

From my first knowledge of these people, I have always considered them the finest and noblest race of Heathens known to the Civilized World; and have ever been persuaded, that they only wanted the introduction of the arts of civilization, and the knowledge of the Christian Religion, to make them a great nation. I am more confirmed in this opinion, since I have visited them, than I was before; as I found them much more civilized, in general, than I had previously conceived.

When I was preparing for New Zealand, Mr. John Liddiard Nicholas, a gentleman who came out to settle in this colony about two years ago, volunteered to accompany me. I readily accepted his offer.

We embarked on board the Active, on Saturday the 19th of Nov. 1814, and sailed down the harbour early that morning; but were obliged to anchor again near the mouth, by contrary winds. Here we were detained nine days.

On Monday, the 28th, we weighed anchor, and got out to sea.

The number of persons on board the Active, including women and children, was thirty-five. Mr. Hansen, master; his wife and son; Messrs. Kendall, Hall, and King, with their wives and five children; eight New Zealanders; two Otaheitans; and four Europeans belonging to the vessel; beside Mr. Nicholas, myself, two sawyers, one smith, and one runaway convict whom we afterwards found on board. We had also on board, one horse, two mares, one bull, and two cows, with a few sheep, and poultry of different kinds, intended for the island. The cows and bull bad been presented by Governor Macquarrie, from His Majesty's herd, as mentioned in my former Letter.

Nothing of consequence happened during our voyage.

Arrival at North Cape--

Dec. 15th, We saw the Three Kings, some small islands which lie to the north of New Zealand, about twelve leagues. We sailed close by them in the afternoon. As I wished to pass a day at the North Cape, we stood away for it in the evening with a light breeze, and saw the land before sunset. We had little wind all night. The next morning, at daylight, we were almost four leagues from shore, and stood on till about eight o'clock. I was anxious to have an interview with the Chiefs, in order that I might explain to them the object of my voyage, and introduce the Settlers to them, and prepare the way for any future attempts to promote their welfare.

Friendly Intercourse with the Natives of North Cupe--

After breakfast, the ship's boat was hoisted out, with a view to visit the shore. I directed Duaterra, Shunghee, Koro-koro, Tooi, and Tiraara, all the Chiefs we had on board, to go in her, and no Europeans; so that they might open an intercourse between us and the Natives, and bring us some supplies. The boat was well armed,

that they might defend themselves if any attack should be made upon them.

Before the boat had reached the land, a canoe appeared alongside the Active, with plenty of fish; and, shortly afterward, a Chief followed from the shore, who immediately came on board with his son. In his canoe there were some very fine men. I asked him if he had seen Duaterra, whom I had sent on shore, he told me he had not; and immediately showed me a pocket-knife, tied to a string round his waist, which he highly valued, and informed me that it had been given to him by Duaterra a long time before. I was much gratified that we had been so fortunate as to meet with a Chief who knew our friend Duaterra.

As we were now likely to obtain fully the object of our visit, I told them my name, with which they seemed well acquainted; and immediately inquired after a young man belonging to that place, who had lived with me some time previously. His brother was in the canoe; and greatly rejoiced he was to see me. He made the most anxious inquiries after his brother. I gave him every information that I could.

We were now quite free from all fear, as the Natives seemed desirous to show their attention to us by every possible means in their power. I then informed the Chief that we wanted some hogs and potatoes. He requested me to send one of our people on shore in his canoe, and he would send for some immediately. I ordered one of the New Zealanders belonging to the Active into the canoe, as I did not think it prudent to send an European.

The Chief and his son remained on board. They seemed very happy, and much gratified with our confidence in them. I explained to the Chief the object of our voyage; and informed him that the Active would continue to visit them, from time to time; and that Messrs Kendall, Hall, and King, would settle at the Bay of Islands, for the general benefit of their country. I also gave him a printed copy of Governor Macquarrie's Instructions to Masters of Vessels relative to them, and explained their meaning, which he comprehended and much approved. I directed him to show these Instructions to all the Captains of Vessels that might touch there, as they would be a protection to them. He received these Instructions with much satisfaction.

In a short time, other canoes came to the Active, and brought abundance of the finest fish that I ever saw. Our decks were soon covered with them. We had now a number of Natives both on board and alongside, who behaved with the greatest propriety. We traded with them for fishing-lines, and other articles of curiosity.

Before Duaterra and the other Chiefs returned with the boat, a large War-canoe came off to the vessel. She was very full of fine stout men, and sailed very fast. Though the sea was rather rough, and we were some distance from the land, yet it was pleasing to behold with what ease she topt the rising waves.

One of the principal Chiefs was in this War-canoe, with a number of his attendants; and a young man, an Otaheitan (known by the name of Jem by Europeans), whom I had known some years back, as he had formerly resided a considerable time at Parramatta with Mr. M'Arthur. This Otaheitan had married the Chief's daughter, and his wife was in the canoe, he was much surprised to see me, and I was not less so to meet him so very unexpectedly here. He had been in the habit of visiting my house, when at Parramatta; and was well acquainted with my situation in New South Wales. As he could speak English exceedingly well, I fully explained to him the object of my voyage to New Zealand, and what were my future plans. He was much pleased at the idea of Europeans residing in the island. This young man, being very intelligent and active, appeared to have gained the full confidence of his father-in-law, and to have great weight and influence at the North Cape. I made him, his father-in-law, and the other principal men, a few presents, which were gratefully received.

After some conversation, I mentioned to them, that the New Zealanders had been guilty of great cruelties to the Europeans, and particularly in the case of the Boyd. They replied, that the Europeans were the first aggres-

sors, by inflicting corporal punishment on the Chiefs.

I also told them, that Mr. Barnes, Master of the Jefferson Whaler, when at Port Jackson, had informed me that they had acted treacherously toward him, in attempting to cut off two boats belonging to the Jefferson, when she was last at the North Cape, in company with the King George. I told them, I was much concerned to hear these reports; and that if they continued to act in this manner, no European Vessels would visit them. In reply to this, the Otaheitan and Chiefs stated, that the Masters of the Jefferson and the King George had, in the first instance, behaved ill to them. They had agreed to give 150 baskets of potatoes and eight hogs for a musket. The potatoes and hogs were delivered, and were divided between the two vessels; after which, the Otaheitan and one of the Chiefs went on board the King George for the musket, which was delivered: at the same time, the Master of the King George demanded more potatoes and hogs; the Chief was detained on board; and the Otaheitan was sent on shore for more potatoes and pigs. The Head Chief said he had fulfilled the agreement for the musket, by the 150 baskets of potatoes and eight hogs, and he would give no more. The Chief that was detained a prisoner on board the King George was the Head Chief's brother, and was at this time on board the Active. The Otaheitan was sent on board the King George, to tell the Master that no more potatoes and hogs would be given, and to request him to release the Chief whom he had unjustly detained. This the Master refused to do, and kept the Otaheitan a prisoner also. In two or three days they were both put on board the Jefferson: there they remained for three or four days, till they were ransomed at 170 baskets of potatoes and five hogs. The people on shore were greatly enraged, and alarmed for the safety of their Chief, as the vessels were out of sight for some time. After the potatoes and hogs were delivered, two boats were sent on shore with the Otaheitan and the Chief. Great numbers of the Natives were assembled on the shore, to receive them. They were no sooner landed, than the Natives fired upon the boats; and I have no doubt but that they would have massacred the people at the moment, if they could, for their fraud and cruelty. The Otaheitan told me it was impossible to restrain the people from firing upon the boats. The Chief spoke with great warmth and indignation at the treatment which he had received. I assured them that both King George and Governor Macquarrie would punish any act of fraud and cruelty committed by the Europeans, whenever they were informed of them.

I now gave them the Governor's Instructions to Masters of Vessels, and explained the nature of them; which was clearly understood by the Otaheitan, who explained them to the rest. I told them the Active would constantly visit them; and, by that means, they might easily obtain redress from the Governor of New South Wales: and requested them never to commit any act of violence on Europeans in future, but to refer their complaints to the Governor. They seemed much pleased, and promised they would not injure the crews of any vessels that should touch there. I told them that the Masters of the King George and the Jefferson would be called on to answer for their conduct, when they came to Port Jackson; as I should inform Governor Macquarrie what they had done.

While the principal Chief and his party remained on board, the boat returned with Duaterra and the rest who had gone in her. Duaterra and the principal Chief seemed well acquainted, and were very polite to each other. The most friendly salutations passed between them; and Duaterra, being; now comparatively very rich, made several presents to his friends, as did the other Chiefs who had come with me from Port Jackson. Duaterra renewed the conversation relative to their firing on the Jefferson's boats; and laid the strongest injunctions on them not to injure the Europeans in future, but to refer their complaints to the Governor of New South Wales.

This was one of the most interesting and pleasant days I had ever enjoyed; I was nevermore amused and gratified, than on this occasion. Before evening, we had got an abundant supply of fish, hogs, and potatoes.

I informed the Natives that I should sail that night for the Bay of Islands.

They pressed us very much to stay another day, and they would bring us more fish, potatoes, and hogs. I told them we had got what we wanted now; but that I would call and see them, on my return to Port Jackson; and if, in the mean time, they would prepare me some flax, I would buy it of them. The Chief promised to have some ready. As soon as evening came on, they took their leave, in a very warm and affectionate manner; and went into their canoes, to return to shore, apparently much satisfied with the reception that they had met with on board the Active, and the information which they had received relative to the Active visiting them again, and the Europeans settling on their island.

Reach the Cavalle Isles--

When the Natives left us, we immediately made sail; and proceeded on our voyage with a fair breeze. During the night, the wind died away; and, in the morning, the little which we had was against us, so that our progress was but trifling, along the coast. The hills and woods appeared very beautiful to the eye; and native fires smoked in all directions on the Main. The whole of this day the wind continued nearly the same. The next morning we beat up against the wind, and passed the mouth of the Harbour of Whangorooa, the place where the Boyd was cut off; but could not weather the Cavalles, some small inhabited islands which lie a few miles from the Main. The Natives informed us that there was a safe passage between the Main and these Islands. We endeavoured, therefore, to beat through them; but could not, for the contrary wind.

Friendly Intercourse with the Natives there--

A s we were not far from the Cavalles, I wished to visit the Natives upon them, and had the boat hoisted out for that purpose. Messrs. Nicholas and Kendall, with Koro-koro, and Tooi, accompanied me on shore. As soon as we landed, all the Natives ran off, and secreted themselves in the bushes; except one old man, who, being lame, was not able to make his escape. We walked up to him. He appeared alarmed, till he saw Koro-koro. I then made him a present of a few trifles; and, in return, he offered us a basket of dried fish, which we declined accepting. Koro-koro left us immediately, and went in search of the Natives. Mr. Kendall sat down with the old man, who was much fatigued in getting up the hill. Mr. Nicholas and I went after Koro-koro, but were sometime before we could find him. He had gone to inquire after his relations, who lived on this island. After some search, we found him: he had met with one of his own men.

By this time the Natives began to recover from their alarm, and to come out of their hiding-places.

Affecting Meeting of a Chief and his Relatives--

While we were talking with Korokoro and some of the Natives, his aunt was seen coming toward us, with some women and children. She had a green bough twisted round her head, and another in her hand, and a young child on her back. When she came within a hundred yards, she began to make a very mournful lamentation; and hung down her head, as if oppressed with the heaviest grief. She advanced to Koro-koro with a slow pace. He appeared much agitated, and stood in deep silence, like a statue, leaning on the top of his musket. As his aunt advanced, she prayed very loud, and wept exceedingly. Tooi, Koro-koro's brother, seemed much affected; and, as if he were ashamed of his aunt's conduct, he told us he would not cry--"I will act like an Englishman. I will not cry!" Koro-koro remained motionless, till his aunt came up to him, when they laid their heads together, the woman leaning on a staff, and he on his gun; and, in this situation, they wept aloud for a long time, and repeated short sentences alternately, which we understood were prayers; and continued weeping, the tears rolling down their sable countenances in torrents. It was impossible to see them without being deeply affected.

At this time, also, the daughter of Koro-koro's aunt sat at her mother's feet weeping, and all the women joined their lamentations. We thought this an extraordinary custom among them of manifesting their joy; but we afterward found that it was general in New Zealand.

Many of these poor women cut themselves, in their faces, arms, and breasts, with sharp shells or flints, till the blood streamed down. When their tears and lamentations had subsided, I presented the women with a few presents.

Tooi had sat all this while, labouring to suppress his feelings, as he had declared he would not cry. In a short time, we were joined by several fine young men. Among them was a youth, the son of a Chief of the island. When Tooi saw him, he could contain his feelings no longer; but instantly ran to him, and they locked each other in their arms, and wept aloud.

When they had saluted one another and all the women, and had gone through various ceremonies, we entered into conversation with them, and inquired why they all ran off into the bushes. They told us that they concluded, when we landed, that we were going to shoot them. These people were greatly rejoiced when they found us to be their friends. They did every thing in their power to please and gratify us.

After spending a few hours, we returned to the place where we had left Mr. Kendall alone talking to the old man. Numbers of Natives attended us.

We enjoyed here a very pleasant day, as every object around us was new and interesting, particularly the inhabitants.

From the top of the Cavalles, the view of the Main, together with the Ocean and the numerous small Islands scattered upon it, is the most delightful I ever saw; at least, I thought so.

When we arrived, we found Mr. Kendall had been visited by some of the Natives, who were still with him; and that he had been much entertained during our absence.

In the evening, we returned to the vessel, accompanied by the son of the Chief, and some Chiefs from the Main, who remained on board all night.

The next morning the wind still continued against us; and we had been labouring more than a day and a night, to work the vessel either round the Islands, or between them and the Main, in seven fathoms water. We now lay about five leagues from Whangorooa, the harbour where the Boyd was cut off and her crew massacred, and one league from the Main; a part of New Zealand belonging to the Chief Shunghee, who was on board the Active, having been to pay me a visit at Port Jackson.

Duaterra and Shunghee had often told me of the bloody war that had been carried on between the people of Whangorooa and the Bay of Islands, from the time the Boyd was cut off to that period. During their stay at Port Jackson, they were always apprehensive that the Chiefs of Whangorooa would take advantage of their absence, and make an attack upon the people at the Bay of Islands. We here learned, however, that there had been no disturbance while they had been absent.

After the Boyd had been cut off, Tippahee, a Chief belonging to the Bay of Islands, and who had visited Port Jackson, and while there received great attention, was accused of being concerned in that dreadful massacre, in consequence of which, the Whalers who were at that time on the coast, and came into the Bay of Islands shortly after, united together, and sent seven armed boats before day to attack the Island of Tippahee; on which they landed, and shot every man, woman, and child, that came in their way; in which attack Tippahee received seven shots, and soon after died.

Duaterra and Shunghee always declared that Tippahee was innocent of the crime for which he suffered. Whangorooa is about forty miles to the northward of the Bay of Islands. Tippahee was in the habit of trading with the people of Whangorooa, and happened to go with a cargo of fish the very day the Boyd was taken. The whole of the crew had been massacred when he arrived, excepting five men who were in the rigging. These he took into his own canoe, and landed them, with a view of saving their lives; but, being followed by the people, the five men were forcibly taken from him, and instantly put to death. This is the account given by those New Zealanders who first visited New South Wales. They originally

declared that Tippahee was innocent of the destruction of the Boyd.

The people at the Bay of Islands, in consequence of the death of their Chief Tippahee, declared war against the people of Whangorooa: several desperate battles had been fought, and the war was likely to continue.

I had often told Duaterra and Shunghee, that it would be for the interest of all parties to make peace; and that I wished to see it established before I quitted New Zealand. Duaterra expressed his doubts as to the accomplishment of this object. I told him, I thought, if I could obtain an interview with the Chiefs, that I might bring it about; and that it was my determination to visit Whangorooa before my return, and try what could be done.

The next day the wind still continued in the same quarter, which obliged us to remain at anchor. I again visited the Cavalles; and there learned, that the Chiefs of Whangorooa, and all the principal Warriors, had come to the funeral of some great man who died a few days before, and were then encamped on the shore opposite to where the Active lay. On this information, I hastened on board, and consulted with Duaterra. I told him how anxious I was to make peace, now that the Europeans were coming to settle among them: that this would secure the lives of the Europeans, and tend to the general benefit of their country. I expressed my wish to visit the Whangorooa Camp, and hear what the Chief's had to say on the subject. As he had never met these people since the loss of the Boyd, but in the field of battle, he hesitated for some time. I did all I could to induce him to try the experiment. He was not afraid of himself; but apprehensive lest some accident might happen to me, or to some person belonging to me. At length, he consented to go on shore with me. Shunghee and Koro-koro agreed to accompany us. Messrs. Nicholas, Kendall, King, and Hansen, volunteered to do the same. We took several loaded muskets in the boats with us. The beach where we were to land belonged to Shunghee, and was covered with Shunghee's people.

When we approached the shore, we saw the Whangorooa Chiefs, with their Warriors, encamped on a high sugar-loaf hill, to the left hand of us, with their colours flying. The foot of this hill communicated with the sea. As soon as they saw us land (our distance from them being about half a mile), they took to their spears, struck their colours, and ran off as fast as they could. Duaterra took a brace of large pistols, and told me to follow him slowly; for he should come up with them at a certain point, so as to speak to them; as they could not escape him, there being no other way by which they could go, on account of the sea. We all marched together after Duaterra, being surrounded by an immense crowd of men, women, and children, belonging to Shunghee. Some of the principals of these people ran in different directions, to clear the way, and keep the crowd from pressing us. In a short time, Duaterra returned to meet us, and called to me to come forward. We accordingly mended our pace, and soon came in sight of the Whangorooa People, who had stopped to receive us. A line was formed on each side, for us to march through them. An old woman, whom I took to be a Priestess, made a very great noise, and waved a flag as we advanced. The Chiefs were all seated on the ground, according to their custom; and their Warriors standing up, with their spears fixed upright, which were from fifteen to twenty feet in length, and upward. They were armed also with their pataoes. Duaterra stood at some distance from the Chiefs who were seated, with a pistol in his hand. When I had got up to the Chiefs, Duaterra discharged his pistol; and afterward ordered the muskets belonging to our party to be discharged, which was done. The Whangorooa people discharged their muskets also. These I considered as most favourable omens of success in my object.

One of the principal Chiefs who lad cut off the Boyd had been at Par-

ramatta, and knew me. He had been on board the Whalers for a considerable time, and spoke English well enough to be understood. He is known by the Europeans by the name of George. I made the Chiefs a few presents; and, after some conversation on various subjects, and particularly on the occasion of my visit to New Zealand, I inquired how they came to cut off the Boyd, and to massacre her crew. Two of them stated, that they were at Port Jackson when the Boyd was there, and had been put on board by Mr. Lord, in order to return home; that the Head Chief (George) had fallen sick when on board, and was unable to do his duty as a common sailor; in consequence of which he was severely punished, refused provisions, and threatened to be thrown overboard, and many other indignities offered him, even by the common sailors. He remonstrated with the Master, and begged him not to inflict corporal punishment on him; and assured him that he was a Chief in his own country, which they would know on his arrival at New Zealand. He was told he was no Chief; with many abusive terms which he mentioned, and which are but too commonly used by British sailors. When he arrived at Whangorooa, his back was in a very lacerated state, and his friends and people were determined to revenge the insults which had been offered him. He said, if he had not been treated with such cruelty, the Boyd would never have been touched.

From the accounts which these Chiefs and their people gave of the destruction of the Boyd, Tippahee appears to have had no hand in this melancholy event: it was wholly their own act and deed. This being strictly true, and I see no reason to disbelieve their declaration, Tippahee and his people were innocent sufferers, and their deaths laid the foundation for much bloodshed. Many since that period have been cut off, both belonging to the Bay of Islands and Whangorooa. I never passed Tippahee's Island without a sigh. It is now desolate, without an inhabitant, and has been so ever since his death; the ruins of his little cottage, which was built by the kindness of the late Governor King, still remaining. I would hope that those Europeans, who were concerned in that fatal transaction, were ignorant, at the time, that they were punishing the innocent. I think it probable that the mistake, if there were one, which I am inclined to believe, originated in the affinity between the names of Tippahee and the Chief of Whangorooa who was principally concerned in the destruction of the Boyd, and whose name is Tippoohee. This Chief I saw, and conversed with on the subject.

Having fully satisfied myself relative to the loss of the Boyd, and explained to these people the reason of the Active coming to New Zealand, I found, as night was coming on, that I could not accomplish the grand object I had in view, of making peace, without spending more time with them, and therefore resolved to remain all night in their camp.

Shunghee had given direction to his people to prepare supper for us, nearly a mile from where we then were. I told the Chiefs we would go to visit Shunghee's people; and, when we had taken some refreshment, I and Mr. Nicholas would return and spend the night in their camp, in order that we might have a little more conversation with them. To this they readily consented; and, with a view to shew some marked attention, they entertained us with a sham-fight, war-dance, and song of victory, before we went to Shunghee's people.

After these ceremonies were over, we took leave, and returned to the place where we had landed, attended by a very large number of Natives. Shunghee's servants had got our potatoes and fish prepared. Duaterra, and the party who had come with us from the Active, now returned on board; leaving myself, Mr. Nicholas, and Shunghee, to spend the night on shore. We sat down upon the ground to supper; but were soon almost smothered with the Natives, who crowded so close around us, that I was compelled to draw a circle, and to direct them not to pass it.

We were much amused with these people; and they appeared equally so with us, and manifested every wish to serve us. After spending about an

hour with them, we returned to the camp of the Whangorooa People, who had removed about half a mile further from the place where we had had our first interview with them; and had taken their station in a level piece of ground, which I estimated to contain about 100 acres. They received us very cordially. We sat down among them, and the Chiefs surrounded us.

I now renewed our conversation relative to the destruction of the Boyd, with a view of bringing about a reconciliation between them and the inhabitants of the Bay of Islands; as I considered it of great importance to the Mission to establish peace between these contending parties. The Chiefs told me the state the Boyd was then in; and promised to give me the guns, and whatever remained belonging to her, if I would go into their harbour. They had got some of the guns on shore, and would get the rest. The Chief, George, told me that his father and five others were blown up in the Boyd, when she took fire. His father had got part of the powder upon deck, and some of the muskets; and was trying one of the flints in a musket, whether it would strike fire or not, when a spark caught the powder and set the Boyd on fire, and killed all that were near. He pressed me touch to go into their harbour. I told him I probably should before I left New Zealand, If the wind would permit; but I could not go at that time, on account of the stock, and the number of people on board the Active.

I then spoke to him on the subject of peace; and pointed out to him how much more it would be for their interest and happiness to turn their attention to agriculture and the improvement of their country, than continue to fight and murder one another; and particularly now that Europeans were going to settle among them, through whom they could obtain wheat to sow their lands, and tools for agriculture. I assured them, that every assistance would be given to them by the Europeans, to promote the improvement of their present station; and that if they would only attend to the cultivation of their lands, and lay aside all wars and murders, they would soon become a great and happy people.

George replied, that they did not want to fight any more, and were ready to make peace.

Much conversation passed, principally respecting New Zealand, and Port Jackson, which George had visited. I endeavoured to impress on his mind a conviction of the superior comforts that we enjoyed, compared with them, in our mode of living, houses, &c. which he well knew; and that all such comforts they might equally enjoy, in a short time, by cultivating their lands, and improving themselves in useful knowledge, which they would now have an opportunity to acquire from the European Settlers.

He seemed sensible of all these advantages, and expressed a wish to follow my advice. We were surrounded by the other Chiefs and their people, during our conversation.

As the evening advanced, the people began to retire to rest, in different groups. About eleven o'clock, Mr. Nicholas and I wrapped ourselves up in our great coats, and prepared for rest also. George directed me to lie by his side. His wife and child lay on the right hand, and Mr. Nicholas close by. The night was clear, the stars shone bright, and the sea in our front was smooth: around us were numerous spears stuck upright in the ground; and groups of Natives, lying in all directions, like a flock of sheep, upon the grass, as there were neither tents nor huts to cover them. I viewed our present situation with sensations and feelings that I cannot express--surrounded by cannibals, who had massacred and devoured our countrymen. I wondered much at the mysteries of Providence, and how these things could be! Never did I behold the blessed advantages of civilization in a more grateful light than now. I did not sleep much during the night. My mind was too seriously occupied by the present scene, and the new and strange ideas which it naturally excited.

About three o'clock in the morning, I rose, and walked about the camp; surveying the different groups of Natives. Some of them put out their heads from under the top of their Kakkahows, which are like a beehive, and spoke to me. When the morning light returned, we beheld men, women, and children, asleep in all directions, like the beasts of the

field. I had ordered the boat to come on shore for us at day light; and, soon after, Duaterra arrived in the camp.

I now invited the Chiefs on board the Active to breakfast, which invitation they readily accepted. We immediately went all in the boat together, and several canoes put off at the same time for the Active. At first I entertained doubts whether the Chiefs would trust themselves with us, on account of the Boyd, lest we should detain them when we had them in our power; but they showed no signs of fear, and went on board with apparent confidence.

I communicated to Duaterra my intention to make them some presents, he told me, that whatever article I gave to one, I must give a similar one to another; and each article was to be given separately, and to the eldest Chief first. The axes, billhooks, prints, &c. which I intended to give them, were all got ready. After breakfast, the Chiefs were seated in the cabin, in great form, to receive the presents. I sat on one side of the table, and they on the other. Duaterra stood, and handed each article separately. Messrs. Kendall, Hall, and King, with the Master of the Active and his son, were all, one after another, introduced to the Chiefs. They were at the same time informed what duty each of these persons was appointed to do--Mr. Kendall, to instruct their children; Mr. Hall, to build houses, boats, &c; Mr. King, to make fishing-lines; and Mr. Hansen, to command the Active, which would be employed in bringing axes, and such other articles as were wanted, from Port Jackson, to enable them to cultivate their land and improve their country.

When these ceremonies were over, of giving and receiving the presents, I expressed my hopes that they would have no more wars, but from that time would be reconciled to one another. Duaterra, Shunghee, and Koro-koro, all shook hands with the Chiefs of Whangorooa; and saluted each other, as a token of reconciliation, by joining their noses together. I was much gratified to see these men at amity once more; and sincerely wish that this peace may never be broken; and considered the time well employed while we had been detained by adverse winds.

The Chiefs took their leave after this, much pleased with our attention to them; and promised never, in future, to injure any Europeans.

Having now nothing more to do, and the wind becoming favourable, in the afternoon we weighed and stood for the Bay of Islands, and reached the mouth of the harbour. We were met by a War-canoe belonging to Koro-koro, who resides on the south side of the harbour. In this canoe were Koro-koro's son and a number of his servants. They were all greatly rejoiced to see their Chief. He left, his son on board, and immediately went on shore in his canoe.

About three o'clock, on Thursday, the 22d of December, we anchored on the north side of the harbour, about seven miles from the Heads, in a cove opposite to the town of Ranghee-Hoo, where Duaterra was wont to reside. The Active was soon surrounded with canoes from all quarters. On going ashore, Duaterra and Shunghee found all their friends and relatives well, who wept much for joy at their return; and the women cut themselves in a similar manner to those at the Cavalles, with shells and flints, till the blood flowed down. It was in vain to attempt to dissuade them from this, as they considered it the strongest proof of their affection. The next day we landed the horses and cattle, and fixed on a place for the present residence of the Settlers; and began to clear away the rubbish, and prepare for erecting the houses for their reception, on a piece of ground adjoining to the Native Town, pitched upon by Duaterra and the Chiefs of the place.

About eight a o'clock on Saturday morning, Koro-koro, who lives about nine miles from the Settlers, came to pay his respects to us, He was attended by ten canoes full of his warriors, with some women and children. The canoes came down in a regular line, with colours flying; which when we observed, we immediately hoisted ours.

Some of his officers stood up, and regulated all their movements; both by word of command, and by signals made by their large pataoes ornamented with feathers, which they held in their hands, and kept in constant motion. Koro-koro was dressed in his native clothing, and also his brother Tooi, and painted with red ochre, as were all the warriors, and with feathers in their hair. The whole presented a grand warlike appearance. They advanced with great speed toward the Active, and kept a regular line, each man striking his paddle at the same instant, so that the whole had the appearance of one stroke. They sung the war-song as they approached; and performed all their gestures and threats, as if they were determined on attacking the vessel. They were saluted with a discharge of thirteen small arms. The song of victory was then sung in the canoes, and their war rejoicings performed.

After this, Koro-koro, with the Chiefs who had accompanied him, came on board, and made us several presents, in the politest manner. A number of Chiefs from other districts were also on board. Koro-koro introduced them all, one by one, to us; pointed out the particular attention thai each of us had shown him while in Port Jackson; and lamented that the poverty of his country prevented him returning our kindness according to his wishes. He was also very particular in explaining to the other Chief's for what purposes Messrs. Kendall, Hall, and King, came to reside at New Zealand. Duaterra and his friends were present on the occasion, and assisted in regulating the necessary ceremonies and forms, in which Koro-koro and his party were to be received.

It had been previously settled between Duaterra and Koro-koro, unknown to us, that when the latter came to pay his respects, we were to be entertained with a sham-fight. After taking some refreshment, preparations were made to go on shore. Koro-koro was about to make an attack on Duaterra's people, and to take the place by storm. Duaterra then went on shore, to prepare for the defence of his place. A number of canoes, belonging to other Chiefs, immediately joined us, full of people. When Koro-koro left, the Active, I, accompanied by Mr. Nicholas and the Settlers, went with him. Duaterra had got all his men drawn up, armed with their spears and other weapons of war. Koro-koro's canoes advanced toward the shore, in the same order of battle in which they had approached the Active. A Chief belonging to Duaterra, quite naked, ran furiously to and fro along the beach, armed; making a most horrid noise, and daring them to land. As the canoes came nearer to the shore, those in them increased their shouts and furious gestures. At length they all jumped out of the canoes into the water, and, in one close body, began the attack. Duaterra's men all retreated as fast as possible, and the others pursued them a considerable distance, when Duaterra's men suddenly wheeled round and attacked their pursuers. The battle then became general. A number of women were in the heat of the action; among whom was Tippahee's old wife, not much less than seventy years of age; and Duaterra's wife, bearing a pataoe in her hand, about seven feet long, made out of the jawbone of a whale. This weapon she brandished about in the very centre of the battle; and went through all the various movements of the men, whether in retreating or advancing. After both parties had run and struggled together till nearly exhausted, some having been trampled upon, and others accidentally knocked down, they formed a close body, and united in the shouts of victory and in the war-dance, which ended the scene. Duaterra, during the action, commanded one party, and Koro-koro the other.

Duaterra passed the remaining part of the day in preparing for the Sabbath. He inclosed about half an acre of land with a fence, erected a pulpit and reading-desk in the centre, and covered the whole, either with black native cloth, or some duck, which he had brought with him from Port Jackson. He also procured some bottoms of old canoes, and fixed them up as seats on each side the pulpit, for the Europeans to sit upon; intending to have Divine Service performed there

the next day. These preparations he made of his own accord; and, in the evening, informed me that every thing was ready for Divine Service. I was much pleased with this singular mark of his attention. The reading-desk was about three feet from the ground, and the pulpit about six feet. The black cloth covered the top of the pulpit, and hung over the sides. The bottom of the pulpit, as well as the reading-desk, was part of a canoe. The whole was becoming, and had a solemn appearance. He had also erected a flag-staff on the highest hill in the village, which had a very commanding view.

On Sunday morning, when I was upon deck, I saw the English flag flying, which was a pleasing sight in New Zealand. I considered it as the signal and the dawn of civilisation, liberty, and religion, in that dark and benighted land. I never viewed the British Colours with more gratification; and flattered myself they would never be removed, till the Natives of that island enjoyed all the happiness of British Subjects.

About ten o'clock we prepared to go ashore, to publish, for the first time, the glad tidings of the Gospel. I was under no apprehension for the safety of the vessel; and therefore ordered all on board to go on shore to attend Divine Service, except the Master and one man. When we landed, we found Koro-koro, Duaterra, and Shunghee, dressed in regimentals, which Governor Macquarrie had given them; with their men drawn up, ready to march into the inclosure to attend Divine Service. They had their swords by their sides, and a switch in their hand. We entered the inclosure, and were placed on the seats on each side of the pulpit. Koro-koro marched his men, and placed them on my right hand, in the rear of the Europeans; and Duaterra placed his men on the left. The inhabitants of the town, with the women and children, and a number of other Chiefs, formed a circle round the whole. A very solemn silence prevailed--the sight was truly impressive! I rose up, and began the Service with singing the Old Hundredth Psalm; and felt my very soul melt within me when I viewed my congregation, and considered the state that they were in. After reading the Service, during which the Natives stood up and sat down at the signal given by the motion of Koro-koro's switch, which was regulated by the movements of the Europeans, it being Christmas Day, I preached from the Second Chapter of St. Luke's Gospel, and tenth verse--Behold! I bring you glad tidings of great joy, &c. The Natives told Duaterra, that they could not understand what I meant. He replied, that they were not to mind that now, for they would understand by and bye; and that he would explain my meaning as far as he could. When I had done preaching, he informed them what I had been talking about. Duaterra was very much pleased that he had been able to make all the necessary preparations for the performance of Divine Worship in so short a time, and we felt much obliged to him for his attention. He was extremely anxious to convince us that he would do every thing for us that lay in his power, and that the good of his country was his principal consideration.

In this manner the Gospel has been introduced into New Zealand; and I fervently pray that the glory of it may never depart from its inhabitants, till time shall he no more!

When the Service was over, we returned on board, much gratified with the reception which we had met with; and we could not but feel the strongest persuasion, that the time was at hand when the glory of the Lord would be revealed to these poor benighted Heathens; and that those who were to remain on the island, had strong reason to believe that their labours would be crowned and blessed with success.

In the evening I administered the Holy Sacrament on board the Active, in remembrance of our Saviour's birth, and what he had done and suffered for us.

Thus, Sir, I have informed you how we devoted our First Sabbath-Day at New Zealand. I assure you it was much more congenial to our feelings, than any gratification we had previously anticipated.