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The Pamphlet Collection of Sir Robert Stout: Volume 10

[letter from Nepia Taratoa to Governor Grey]

Copy of a letter from Nepia Taratoa and others to His Excellency the Governor:—

"Matahiwi, Rangitikei,

"To Governor Grey,—

"Friend—

Salutations. This is a statement of ours for your information. Rangitikei is our residence. The piece of land belonging to my father, withheld from your hand, did not produce a murmur from the tribes. After that Governor Browne (arrived.) Ngatiapa wanted to sell, but my father and all the tribes arranged for another place; Manawatu (was offered) to that Governor of ours. Governor Browne did not say any bad words to us in those years; that he would kick us with his feet, or would seize our lands close to Manawatu, even to all its branches. No, it was rather our Superintendent who seized the reserves excluded from that purchase of the Governor's at Manawatu. Te Paretao was one, Te Rewarewa was another seized by him. Now this is Rangitikei which is being seized. If trouble should come upon us this year it will be through Dr. Featherston. This land selling is not by the residents of Rangitikei.

"Ihakara belongs to Manawatu, others belong to Whanganui, and others belong to Porirua. These are the voices (people) approved of by your friend Dr. Featherston. The reason why this land is seized is that these voices (people) intimidate others.

"This kind of selling is very wrong. Enough. This is another word to you. This land purchase is by your second Provincial Government. (Should read:—' This land purchase is a foul wrong that is being perpetrated during your second term of Government.' T. C. W.) Enough then. It is for you to prevent this land being now seized by Dr. Featherston. The people have written to the Assembly enough."

(Here follow the signatures.)