SH ADVENTURE IN NEW ZEALAND. Cukt. VHI. 
their own language with the greatest avidity ; and 
any publication on other than merely religious sub- 
jects, and backed by authority and influential names, 
would be sure to attract their eager notice as a new 
toy. An advertisement in Maori, by Mr. Lyon, the 
shopkeeper whom I have before described as dealing 
extensively with the Maories, was exciting their lively 
delight at this time in Wellington, and all along the 
neighbouring coast, although it only enumerated the 
various articles which he had for sale. But the set- 
tlers, who observed that Mr. Clarke senior was the 
principal conductor of the Maori Gazette, augured but 
little good from his periodical instructions. 
Nothing could be more encouraging than the mild 
climate and the unceasing bounty of nature during 
these winter months. In May, which answers to 
the chill and foggy November of England, peas were 
in full bloom, small salads in every stage of growth, 
and almost all vegetation unchecked by the season. It 
was likened by Scotchmen to the second month of 
spring in their former land. • ^ ^ 
The produce of garden vegetables as a speculution 
had been long abandoned, on account of the great ease 
with which every one could supply himself. No mat- 
ter how bare, exposed, or rough the spot of ground, 
excellent vegetables could be produced by the most 
careless cultivation. The wild pasture on the hills had 
improved wonderfully under the constant browsing 
and tread of the cattle. Grass was replacing the fern 
all over the barren-looking hills that were cleiir of 
timber ; and, in riding after cattle, many spots could 
hardly be recognised, owing to the great change that 
had taken place. 
And this rich pasture and abundant supply of choice 
vegetables froni cpnipara,tively neglected gardens con- 
