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English (ATL)

Private and Confidential. New Plymouth
October 29, 1861



My dear Sir,

My official communi cations by the Mail I fear will not be very acceptable to a new Governor, and a new Ministry, and I can assure you the subjects to which they relate have been anything but a pleasant task for me, and I had much rather the duty had not devolved uponme.

As the Government is now formed, there is no one I think in it, that can understand the subjects, so well as yourself. I do therefore hope you will use your influence with Sir George Grey, to protect the Native interest involved.

The case of the road through Bayly's farm is viewed as an electioneering favour of Browns, for Bayly's support, to the detriment of the Moturoa Natives, and Mr. Whiteleys establishment, the only parties seriously effected by the cosing of the road, at present as there are no settlers living in the Omata district, except at the Stockade.

Having been myself instrumental in effecting the arrangement with the Moturoa Natives in 1857, I feel more sensitive than a stranger to the question would. A breach of faith with Nativese, becomes a stumbling block in future negotiations.

The case of Raniera v. Hulke, is one which I trust will arouse the indignation of the Government, and put forth its energies to punish Malefactors. This fraudulent transaction was perpetrated during the Native feuds, when Ihaia and his people were besieged in the Karaka Pa, and that scoundrel Hulke was professing to be his friend and benefactor, and even had printed placards all over the place declaring himself to be so, whereas at the same time he was supplying the besiegers with Guns, and ammunition, the essential materials for a vigourous prosecution of the siege, and the annihilation of Ihaia and party. 0 that human nature could ever be so base.

The case of the Mortgage is a complete swindle. The lease for fifteen years has poor Browns signature to it, but the strange part of it is, Raniera declares he was not present when it was executed (in Hulkes private house) that the only parties present, were Tamihana and Teira of the Kaipakopako, who purchased Guns of Hulke. Wilcocks the new clerk to the Resident Magistrates Court, suggested that Hulke might have asked Brown to sign as having witnessed the existance of the document, after it was executed.

An individual who imported a case of Guns, was imprisoned for 6 months, besides losing the case of guns which must have cost him £50 - The same guns were sold by the Customs as contraband, purchased by Hulke (in the names of eight different individuals, another fraudulent feature in the transaction) and sold to Ihaias enemies, at a profit of more than 300£ per cent.

I trust he will be made to feel that the Native Department is not a nonentity, and that he will not be allowed to abuse and scandalize it with impunity, although supported by a Superintendent. The ''Constitution'' will never work satisfactorily until Superintendents are appointed by the Governor.

Mr.Whiteley goes to Auckland by this Steamer, he will explain matters in which he is interested to you, and give you an insight into them.

I have addressed my official correspondence to the Nat.Sec. whoever that may be where I trust you will examine them, before they pass out of your department.


I am, My dear Sir,
Yours very respectfully,
Robert Parris
D. McLean Esqre.
Auckland