Auckland, Aug. 16, 1866 My dear sir, Pray do not misunderstand me to have meant that any political object was in view in the step contemplated. I thought it right simply to point out to you what might have escaped your notice - the effect that such a step would certainly have on the European mind and how seriously it would compromise the Governors position. I quite agree with you in the object but not at present. Whilst the matter is at at issue. Yours very truly, James Edward Fitzgerald