To the Editor of the New Zealand Spectator.

New Zealand Spectator and Cook's Strait Guardian, Volume I, Issue 32, 17 May 1845, Page 3

To the Editor of the New Zealand Spectator.

! Sir, — It is with some diffidence 1 now address you, i being as yet almost a stranger in Wellington; yet, where doubt exists as to the manner in which Rauparaha has been received in this settlement, 1 think the true position ought to be pointed out by the press, so that something like unity may exist. The independent has expressed itself as to the treatment to be pursued in case of insult- being offered,- and attempted to raise Rauparaha into a hero, and the to be Saviour of New Zealand — by such the unwary and strangers may be imposed upon, and led to do what they may ever have cause to, regret. I trust you will follow a different course, laying down the facts, and leaving the public to decide. It should be recollected that Rauparaha is the ostensible chief, that Rangihaieta is his general, that the cold blooded massacre at the Wairau was accomplished with his consent, and withput which it would not have taken place. That a warrant was issued after a mature deliberation (by a full- bench of Magistrates at Nclson> against Rauparaha and Rangihaieta for the murder of Captain Wakefield and others — that the warrant was handed over to Major Richmond, by the Police Magistrate, and has not been accounted for till this day ; and although Captain Fitzroy thought proper to set aside all judicial investigation, still in the mind of every well thinking Englishman, the stigma will for ever uttach to Rauparaha, until after a fair and judicial enquiry he shall be declared innocent, and I cannot but agree with the opinion expressed, in the case of Sir E. Home who had shaken hands with Rauparaha, that his hands would be tabooed to every English Lady and Gentleman. Let those here who may have, inadvertently and without consideration, shaken hands (as I am informed ' there are) wasth them well before" they come in contact with those whose feelings have been outraged by their virtually having sanctioned the Wairau murderers. Let the savage feel every protection under the laws he has so grossly violated, and provide him safe escort lo the bush, from which he should never be induced to return — for depend upon it that no good can ever result from so diabolical an union — and Britons may well be ashamed that the laws of England should be carried into effect by such means as that now performing by the authorities in this place. I am, Sir, Your obedient servant, Alex. M'Donaxd.