CHAPTER X.
IN THE CAUDINE FORKS I would rather be governed by Nero on the spot than by a Board of Angels in London .-- _John Robert Godley_.
Though Governor Hobson landed in January, the formal annexation of the Colony did not take place until May.

He had first to take possession; and this could only be effectually done with the consent of the native tribes.

The northern chiefs were therefore summoned, and came to meet the Queen's representative at Waitangi (Water of Weeping).

Tents and a platform were erected, and the question of annexation argued at length.

The French Bishop Pompallier appeared in full canonicals, and it was found that chiefs under his influence had been well coached to oppose the new departure.