April 24th. 1866. Dear Whitmore, There seems to be a good deal of misunderstanding respecting the action taken by Rhodea at Poverty Bay. I certainly told Rhodes before he went there that I wished to prevent squatting until the land of the rebel Maoris should be separated from those of the loyal/whom of there are but very few in Poverty Bay and that any action he or any one else might take respecting runs must embarass the Govt. It is now an admitted principle that rebel lands must be confiscated but how is this to be done if dealing with rebels and loyals are carried out indiscriminately and where is the Govt. to find rebel land if this system is permitted. The arrest of Hallet was quite irregular no doubt and Westrupp clearly exceeded his duties and if he is treating for land for himself he deserves a severe reprimand. I quite recognize the justice of the Hawkes Bay people having the first chance, but I cannot be a party to any one leasing till the Govt. has/decided the question of its own right and title first. Col. Russell is expected here tomorrow and probably he may be more fully in possession of the views of the Govt. on the question.