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Hawke's Bay Times, Volume II, Issue 53, 3 July 1862, Page 2

[copy.] Napier, sth June, 1862. Dear Sir, —A native named Tamiti Tula

has complained to me to-day that you have for the last two years run 70 head of cattle and (occasionally) 1000 sheep on his land, adjoining yours; and that you refused to make him any compensation. He charges =£ls a year, or in all to this date. He tells me further, that Mr. Alexander having been referred to last year, stated £lO for that year to be a fair charge. I have told him I would write to you, recommending that Mr. Alexander’s estimate of d£lo a-year or £2O in all, should be paid by you to this date, and that you should arrange with them specially for future payment, or else engage to keep your cattle and sheep off their land. Should you not think this a fair and reasonable settlement with the natives, I have told them the case shall be heard by a magistrate and damages assessed ; but as the recourse would probably lead to a greater amount being awarded than they are now willing to take (seeing that 70 head of cattle at ss. a-year would alone amount to some £35, without reference to the sheep), and that you would be liable to the costs also, I recommend your making them the payment I have suggested, and which they have promised me they will take. I have made them acquainted with the contents of this letter. I remain, dear sir. Yours obediently, A. H. Russell, Civil Commissioner.