To the Editor of the New Zealand Spectator. Wellington, 4th August, 1846.

New Zealand Spectator and Cook's Strait Guardian, Volume II, Issue 107, 8 August 1846, Page 3

To the Editor of the New Zealand Spectator. Wellington, 4th August, 1846.

Sir, — In a late confidential conversation with a native, I learned that Rauparaha did take life at tbe Wairau with his own hand, notwithstan ding the ** well derised" tale he pawned upon Capt. Fitzroy, and I believe this fact can be confirmed beyond a doubt by circumstances lately come to light.^ ' When on this subject I feel certain that some passages in the Rev. Mr. Ironside's late letter of laudation on Puaha, must have astonished the majority of the public — he talks of " making reprisals" — reprisals indeed, we ought to ,be thankful to think there are such terms in the law of the land as hanging and irons : the Rev. Gentleman need not perhaps fear but Puaha may be quick enough at interpret! ng- what reSrisal means ; and is no doubt like his double istilled brother and other amiable relations acquainted with tbe meaning of murder, treason, felony, arson, &c, &c. But being well versed in his catechism he might also sometimes reflect, that Hainan was hanged on a pretty high stick, which if it has escaped his memory, it were well to remind him and his friends of; with this reflection I remain, Your obedient servant, Bona Fide.