§ MR. W. H. JAMES (Gateshead)asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies, Whether any intelligence had been received at the Colonial Office confirming the report sent home appearing in The Melbourne Argus, to the effect that previously to the arrival of Sir Charles Mitchell in Tonga, peace had been established by the whole of the Wesleyan body having been exterminated?
§ THE SECRETARY OF STATE (Sir HENRY HOLLAND) (Hampstead)We have not got that information; but we have received a more satisfactory telegram, from which it appears that at least some Wesleyans are left. A telegram was received yesterday from Sir Charles Mitchell in the following words:—
April 30.—Returned from Tonga to-day Send report by next mail. Full inquiry showed report of religious persecution true to considerable extent. King promises make Chiefs observe Constitution as regards religious freedom in future and generally protect Wesleyans. All quiet now. Europeans in no case interfered with.