Friend the Governor,—

Your letter has been received by us, and your words are very clear on this account, therefore we have thought that probably it is not from you that your land buyers have their mode of proceeding towards us, and that perhaps you are not aware of their doings as your letter states one thing, and the proceeding of your agents go upon another plan. For this reason we now write to you, that you comply to our request, that the strife at Taranaki should be made to cease, that the cause of the anger (fighting) may be sought; that it may be seen whether the error is on the side of the Maori, or whether the fault is with your officers (agents), so that the shedding of innocent blood may be speedily made to cease; rather let the matter be investigated up to the point of these evils (errors), which now lie before us. This is all upon that.

Do not look at the smallness of our word, though it be but one, it is from our very hearts; it is a word which is cherished by us day and night, and it is that which comforts our hearts.

This is also another subject, with reference to your caution, not to listen to the foolish talk of Europeans or Natives; we would also caution you against the false reports to the effect that the Maoris fight against the sovereignty of the Queen. It is not the Maori's fight for his lands which are being taken by means of the faulty purchasing of your agents during the year past.

Friend, the ear unaccustomed to hear your words which were written to us we shall not look for words as a reply to your words, for your own words point out the wrong, and it lies on the surface (is plain enough to be seen) for your words have no authority. The fault is (we want) a steadfast word from you, that we may understand. This is the word which will make great (make peace). Then we shall know (acknowledge) that to be a great word. Let it be referred to the Queen to send a person to investigate this error, and make this ware to cease.