No. 32.
Circular to Officers of the Native Department at
Taranaki.
The Governor wishes to impress upon the officers connected with the Native service that he desires to maintain a strict neutrality. If criminal offences are committed within the English boundary the law must take its course without distinction of race. Any one claiming the protection of the British flag must be permitted to avail himself of it, and be guarded from all danger while under it; but no page 145aid shall be given to enable Natives to elude or overawe their opponents in order that they may reach the settlement. It must be clearly understood that no force must ever be used against the Natives, or any party of them, unless in order to punish some direct and distinct outrage on their part. Individuals, should not be allowed to pass through or out of the town armed as if for offence. Armed bodies would be prevented from doing so by the Officer Commanding the Troops.
By His Excellency's commmand.
F. G. Steward, Private Secretary.