Thames July 17th 1872 My dear Sir With reference to Rapona's claims to foreshore - his son in law David Stewart has made the following proposal to me that I should guarantee him the sum of £100 and authorise him to negociate the purchase of Raponas claims total amount to be paid to Rapona this would bring the payment of Raponas claims to more than our closing price which is one thousand pounds, and as this some of is rather in excess of the payments in accordance with the scale fixed by Dr. Pollen and myself. It seemed to me, apart from Stewart's offer better to consult you about it. Both Taipari and myself are of the opinion that it would be prudent to accept Steart's offer of assistance - as it is useless to ourselves to urge Rapona whereas Stewart might help us a good deal and as he is disposed to do so it would be the best thing that could be done - it would of course be clearly understood that Stewart should get the money upon the completion of the purchase of Raponas interests and as he is Raponas son in law this sum might appear as part of the purchase money. Stewart told me that but for Dr. Pollens interference in the matter on the occasion of his past visit here that he was confident in less than three weeks he could put the matter completed into my hands. Shall I send you a full statement of the present position of the foreshore purchases. The irritation consequent upon the acquittal of McCaskill has settle down but a feeling of distrust as to the justice of our Law Courts prevails I have written officially to Kemp recommending that the depositions in the R.M. Court and Supreme Court as well as the addresses of both councils and resume of the whole proceedings be translated and printedin the Waka Maori for circulation amongst the natives. As it is only possible to obtain these in Auckland from the Sup Ct. I wrote to Kemp about it. had the information been obtainable here I would have done it myself and sent it to you for approval. I think this the best course that can be done now. Your obedient servant E.W.Puckey