Hapuku being a Government Officer himself it would be better on all accounts that an enquiry should be made by some other officer than the Civil Commissioners. Whitmore goes down by this steamer, and I have officially made him the offer to succeed Russell. I am sincerely obliged to the latter for the services he has rendered, but as I told you when you were here, the Govt. felt that it was more fair to give the appointment to some one who would permanently hold it. I have assured Whitmore of your own personal advice & aid, and rely on you to help him - which you can do as no one else can - so he will have the best possible start. I congratulate you on becoming the