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Renata's Speech and Letter to the Superintendent of Hawke's Bay on the Taranaki War Question; in the original Maori, with an English translation.

Pawhakairo, April 3rd, 1861

Pawhakairo, April 3rd, 1861.

Friend the Governer,—

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 page 24Lthing, and the proceedings 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 te 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 bat 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 nor 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 so. The Maori fights for his lands, which are being taken by means of the faulty purchasing of your agents during the years past.

Friend, the ear unaccustomed to hear your words which were written to us 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 war to cease.

From all the chiefs of Keretaunga, and the "runanga" of Tamatea.

From Karaitiana, Noa Koke, Tareha, Renata, Moananui.

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