No Surrender.

The story of that afternoon of April the second, 1864, imperishably remains as an inspiration to deeds of courage and fortitude. No-where in history did the spirit of pure patriotism blaze up more brightly than in that little earthwork redoubt, torn by shellfire and strewn with dead and dying. The grim band of heroes proudly refused the terms offered by General Cameron, who certainly did not wish to sacrifice them.

To the General's request, delivered by the interpreter from the head of the sap, the reply was delivered by a chief who was Rewi's mouth-piece: “Peace will never be made, never, never!” A further reply, in words that will forever live, was delivered: “Friend, I shall fight against you for ever and ever!” (in the Maori, “E hoa, ka whawhai tonu ahau ki a koe, ake, ake!“)

The interpreter, Mr. Mair (afterwards Major) said: “That is well for you men, but it is not right that the women and children should die. Let them come out.”

A noble-looking woman, the chieftainess Ahumai, made reply: “If the men are to die, the women and children will die also!”