Copy of a letter from Rawiri Te Wanui and others to the Hon. the Native Minister:—

"Otaki,

July 19, 1866.

"To Colonel Russell,—

page 57

"Salutations to you, O Friend! We have heard that Dr. Featherston is coming to bring the money for Rangitikei. O Friend, give heed, as regards our land at Rangitikei, we are not willing that other tribes and other men leap on to it, and sell it. Is it right that a party not interested take upon himself to sell land or a house belonging to some one else? No, that person would not agree to it, for another man to sell it in that way. Is sueh doing in accordance with the law, that which Dr. Featherston and hig colleagues are doing? Is that which Dr. Featherston is doing correct in your estimation? To our mind it is wrong; it is not according to law, it is wrong; do you also condemn it? Let not Dr. Featherston come here and go on disturbing the (relations which exist) between you and us. But rather carry it out in accordance with the law. Let the Court decide between Dr. Featherston and his friends the sellers of our land on the one part, and us on the other part. That is all"

(Here follow the signatures.)