No. 1.
Translation of a letter from Aperahama te Aika, of Kaiapoi, to His Excellency Sir George Grey.
Sir,—
To Sir George Grey, the most excellent Governor. Salutations to you, O Chief of the Pakehas and Maoris living in New Zealand.
O, Father, my request is that you will grant me a portion of land on the banks of the Puharakeke-nui as a fishing station. Mr. Mantell's promise was never fulfilled. But you can grant me a fishing station there, about 10 acres. I have never received any of the purchase money of that River Puharakeke-nui, and that is why I ask for land there for myself and my children, and my brother Wi Te Pa.
This is all I have to say to you, salutations to you and to your friends.
From me,
Wi Te Pa, and Aperahama Te Aika.
His Excellency Sir George Grey.