Thus friction may be avoided.' Again,
Sir George organised a native police force, which paid a double debt. It
not only waited upon law and order, but exercised a civilising influence
towards the Maoris, through those who were trained in its ranks. That aim
was at the end of all his plans; every road was marked 'To Civilisation.'
Next, Sir George took the field. By accompanying the soldiers, he was
able to gain a variety of advantages. He was at hand to sanction what
steps might be necessary, an advance on cumbrous despatch writing. His
presence was especially valuable when sea and land forces happened to be
co-operating. He could order both, being Governor, Commander-in-Chief,
Lord High Admiral, and everything else, in New Zealand. Finally, he could
speak, face to face, with the Maoris, friends and enemies in the name of
the Queen.
On the "Elphinstone" he had devoted his hours to the study of Maori,
following his principle, 'You cannot govern a race to the best advantage
unless you are able to communicate with them in their own language. They
will receive you more intimately if you thus meet them; they will tell
you things which they would not care to confide to an interpreter.
Moreover, to know the language of a people is a great assistance to the
entire understanding of them, their needs and characteristics.
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