1927 - Butler, John. Earliest New Zealand: the Journals and Correspondence of the Rev. John Butler - CHAPTER XII.

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CHAPTER XII.

Copy of a letter sent to the Mission House, January 14th, 1825.

To Danl. Coates, Esq.,
My Dear Sir,
I beg to apologise for not attending to your request sooner. I have been particularly busy for several days past in looking after my things. You desired that I would state in writing the reason of my leaving Parramatta, and also to name the little boy whom we redeemed from destruction, and whom we have brought over with us, and also to state my present views as to my future proceedings.

But before I say a word on either of these points, I cannot help reflecting on all that has passed during my residence in New Zealand.

The state in which I found the Mission on my arrival; the manner in which the missionaries were living, and bartering and trading, instead of doing good to the poor natives; the almost insurmountable difficulties of putting an end to this wicked and long-established practice; the opposition I had to encounter in various ways, both from the natives and Europeans.

When I consider the toils, pains, sufferings, labours, privations, etc., which my dear wife and myself had undergone to promote the objects of the Society, and the everlasting happiness of the heathen, and when I further consider what characters some of the present instruments are, and what the conduct of others has been, ever since they have been connected with the Society, I sometimes think we have been treated unkindly; not from any member of the Committee at home, for from them I have received every attention; but from their agent abroad.

I do sincerely hope and pray that all past differences may be buried in oblivion; may we learn to forgive each other as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven us.

If I have failed in doing all that the Committee have expected me to perform, or if I have offended in thought, word or deed, I earnestly crave forgiveness on the one hand, and on the other hand I beg permission to affirm that in singleness of heart and in perservering fidelity of action, both my wife and myself have done what we could.

With respect to the interesting little boy Frank, I hope the Society will immediately take him and place him in some school. Should the Lord spare his life, he may become an instrument of vast importance, under the divine blessing, to his countrymen in carrying home the glad tidings of salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.

The epitome of this child's history lies in a few words. In the year 1821, Shungee (Hongi), and all the neighbouring tribes went to war at the River Thames, and cut off many of the people in the district to which this child belongs, among whom was the reputed father of this little boy. His mother was made a prisoner of war, and made a slave

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for ever. Her life was spared because she was a fine woman. The chief therefore took her to wife. The child was spared at the earnest entreaties of his mother, and brought the distance of two hundred miles, tied up in a silk handkerchief marked F.H. to Kidi Kidi (Keri Keri), and was presented to Mrs. Butler, who redeemed him for two axes, and this saved the little creature from immediate death. The natives had thirty miles further to go to their residence, and they had determined to kill the infant and eat him for supper, if the missionaries had refused to take him in.

With respect to the New Zealand Institution now erecting at Parramatta, I beg to be silent (May God Almighty prosper the undertaking), yet I am ready to answer any questions the Committee may think proper to put. The native boys which came to Port Jackson with us (all of them except one) had been under my care and living in my family a long time in New Zealand. The inhabitants of Parramatta were much pleased with them, they being so much superior to any who had heretofore come to Port Jackson, in cleanliness and manners, in civil and religious knowledge. Several of them went with me to Government House, and Sir Thos. Brisbane was much pleased with their appearance and behaviour.

During my stay among them I endeavoured to bring them forward to the utmost of my power. Several of them constantly lived with us, and sometimes the whole of them. The most promising youth, Shou (Tiu), was ill some time, and was at length given up. Doctor Cooper said it was of no use to give him any more medicine, for he would die of the complaint. But Mrs. Butler watched over him with unremitting attention night and day, and administered every little comfort she thought would do him good, and by divine blessing he was restored to perfect health. I went to work daily with the natives at the Institution, clearing the brushwood, stumping of trees, etc., etc.; we broke up sixty rods of ground, planted it with potatoes, cabbages, plants and carra-vances; the intention of which was to furnish the boys with vegetables, as soon as the building was tenable.

Mr. Marsden promised that I should have a man to fence, and garden, and plough, etc., and Mrs. Butler a woman to assist in cooking for the natives, but when I spoke to him about them, I found that he had altered his mind on this subject. Mr. Marsden also put this question to me, "Mr. Butler, do you not think you could learn the natives to manage a train of bullocks, that with your assistance and direction they might convey the stores from the quarry to the building?"

I answered, "Yes, sir, I think I can." But after Mr. Marsden was gone, I thought thereupon and wept. My health also was much decayed by diarrhoea, a complaint which I am subject to in the hot weather; I felt therefore persuaded in my own mind, that if I attempted to remain in so confined a situation I should not live long.

This and many other circumstances press upon me the necessity of leaving this field of action. I praise God to raise up a more able instrument in my stead. I desire to assure the Committee that the cause which they have in hand, lies nearer to my heart than any other object whatsoever, and happy indeed should I be if I might be enabled to pave only one little stone in the universal Temple of Messiah. The cause is the cause of God; your work, the work of the Lord, and rather than attempt to hurt or hinder or injure it, I would suffer my unworthy name and character to be buried under calumny, slander and darkness

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all the days of my life. I know "The time is short," the judge standeth at the door, "The Lord will shortly make known the counsels of all hearts. Then shall everyone receive according to his works."

As to my views of future usefulness, I beg to acquaint the Committee. [The foregoing letter was among Butler's papers, and incomplete; we are therefore again indebted to the "Hocken" Library, viz.:] that some of my friends advise me to obtain an interview with the Bishop of London, and endeavour to get a chaplainship in Van Dieman's Land.

I am quite sure there is great need of more means of grace. Up the country in N.S.W., I preached to an attentive congregation who had not heard a sermon for two years, [Where was Marsden, as this was in his district?] and I am told that in Van Dieman's Land the means are far less. It is my intention, therefore, in humble dependence on the Lord, to endeavour to accomplish this thing. If I succeed, well. If I do not succeed, well. I will wait the kind directing hand of my heavenly Father and say, "It is the Lord, let Him do what seemeth Him good." But should I be successful, I shall ever feel it a pleasure to exert myself in behalf of the Society's object in that ever-increasing colony; and I do think that I might be able to promote their interests, or rather the cause of God, several ways.

I do entreat the Committee, therefore, to put me in the right way of obtaining the object of my wishes.

Praying that the divine blessing may rest upon and prosper all your undertakings.

I remain,
Your faithful and devoted servant,
JOHN BUTLER.
P.S.--I shall feel very thankful if the Committee will settle my small accounts. But I am fearful I shall not have time to write them out, as I am ordered to the London dock by nine o'clock, and it is now past one in the morning, while I am finishing this hasty letter. Please to excuse this spontaneous scrawl, as I am fatigued and very poorly.

To the Revd. Basil Woodd.

No. 61, SNOW HILL,
February 2nd, 1825.

Dear Father Woodd.
In ruminating on all things that have passed in New Zealand and Port Jackson, I am led (like Job) to complain in bitterness of soul; I know it often happens that those are the best people whose characters have been most injured by slanders; as we usually find that to be the sweetest fruit that the birds have been pecking at. Besides what I have stated in my other letters, I could yet go a great length in detailing my grievances, but I will not. I do from my heart forgive everyone, where I have sustained an injury, and pray to be forgiven, where I have done any.

Here I would just observe that I have carefully read over the Society's Rules for their New Zealand Mission, which are both the law and the testimony of the missionary, and I cannot find that I have broken them in any one instance; but on the contrary I have closely

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and attentively followed them. It has been the grief of my heart that the Society's Rules should be so little attended to, and their concerns managed in the manner they have been. If the agent of the Society had acted according to the instructions given to us in London, when we were about to embark for New Zealand, things would have been better and their Mission much more prosperous than it has been. I read in the instructions given us at our departure, "The Committee invite you to lay before them without hesitation your difficulties, sorrows, your hopes and your joy.

"They wish to maintain toward you the character of parents, and faithful friends. Be slow to listen to any accusations against your brethren; nor form your opinion of them, from those who are not influenced by religious principle. You know how often all manner of evil is spoken falsely against you; falsely for His Name's sake; and therefore should not act as if this were a new thing. Believe not tale-bearers; the words of tale-bearers are as wounds; a whisper separateth chief friends; remember our Lord's admonition: 'Judge not that ye be not judged.'"

Not doubting but that your Committee will assuredly act toward my family according to those heavenly maxims, I do anticipate a very favourable result from their deliberations. If I might be permitted, I could easily call to their recollection that it was not from any worldly motive, but from a sincere, longing desire for the salvation of the heathen, that I entered into the service of the Society; neither was it a mean situation which I left for this purpose; and which I filled for eight years with credit to myself, and satisfaction to my employers; and am now (blessed be God) as high in their estimation as at any former period.

After all, I wish it to be clearly understood, I do not wish to be continued in the service of the Society, without the assent, and the full consent of the Committee; yet I trust I may humbly presume, that the Committee will pay my passage home, and in their united wisdom and goodness, make some provision for my family, until an opportunity offers for me to obtain a competency in the sacred work unto which I have been set apart.

And now, dear Sir, what can I say more on this subject? I must leave it in your hands, and in the hands of our heavenly Father; praying that all things may work together for good, and unto His holy Name be assigned eternal praise and glory.

Mrs. Butler and our little daughter are quite ill with colds; the little New Zealand boy is quite healthy; they join with me in sincere regards to you and your dear family.

Revd. and dear Sir,
Very affectionately yours,
JOHN BUTLER.

3, Winkworth Place,
City Road,
LONDON,
3rd February, 1825.

Revd. Sir,
The Revd. John Butler wished me to accompany him to your

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place to-morrow morning, but I am sorry for his sake that my departure to-morrow for Cornwall will prevent this visit.

I have seen Mr. Butler in Port Jackson, have visited him in his field of labour at the Kiddy Kiddy in New Zealand, and I have sailed with him more than twenty thousand miles; the result of my observations upon the missionary carreer and Christian conduct of this gentleman is, that he was one of the Society's best missionaries in New Zealand; and that he is most unquestionably a godly man.

Mr. Marsden's taking this missionary away from New Zealand, and allowing to remain there a fallen brother (------), has always appeared to us most strange. It is most people's opinion in New South Wales that the N.Z. Mission can never prosper, while Mr. M. has its management. I am aware that something has been prepared for the press on Mr. M.'s proceedings in that Mission, but I hope the abuses will cease, and that the publication of it will be relinquished.

Mr. B. I am sure has been treated ill. The Revd. Mr. Lang can give you much more valuable information on this subject.

I am, Revd. Sir,
Your most obt. and humble svt.,
(Signed) W. LAWRY, Wes. Miss.

Revd. Basil Woodd.

Date, after 1830.
In an address given to some large assembly in England, Butler states:

"Our venerable president has informed me that the two New Zealand chiefs, Tooi and Teeteeree, once attended a bible meeting in this place--a circumstance remembered, I think, by many present, and perhaps it would afford a moment's gratification to hear of their subsequent life.

"I and my colleagues sailed with them from London, England, in the ship "Baring," on December 15th, 1818. Our ship ran aground on the break-sand off the north foreland, and we were obliged to put back to Chatham for to repair the injuries sustained; we were there a fortnight, during which time Tooi was very ill, and manifested signs of true repentance.

"When we arrived in New Zealand, we were obliged to go and reside with a tribe much more powerful than Tooi's or Teeteeree's people; otherwise we should have endangered their safety, and exposed them to immediate peril, to the immediate effects of a dreadful war. This circumstance prevented them from living with us, but we visited them as often as we had opportunity.

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"They often spake with much feeling of the many kindnesses conferred upon them by the good people in England, and with respect to Tooi especially, I think that those impressions were never wholly effaced, but continued in a measure until he died. Tooi has been dead some time.

"The last time I saw Teeteeree, he was clad in his native costume, and working ground for potatoes. We entered into conversation, and he wept while we were talking over what he had seen and heard and received during his residence in your country. I believe he is still living.

"With regard to the spot on which we fixed in order to commence our operations, I shall only observe that it was covered with brushwood, fern, etc., which we had to remove and clear away. There were no wells dug, no vineyards planted, no habitations erected, and the labour and difficulty of forming a new settlement, and erecting necessary buildings and habitations by a handful of missionaries in a heathen land, among savages and cannibals, can scarcely be conceived by them who know nothing of these things but by hearing of the ear.

To assist us in this arduous undertaking, we engaged as many native servants as we could supply with food, and during the whole of my residence among them, I seldom had less than fourteen, and generally more, who were clothed and fed, and instructed, and employed in felling timber, and sawing, fencing, agriculture, etc. But while they were thus employed, we had the most favourable opportunities of conveying the most important truths to their minds. And I am happy to learn, that some of them are still in the service of the Mission; but that which is gratifying beyond all is, several of them have embraced the Gospel, have been baptised into the Xtian faith, and are leading a Xtian and godly life.

"Thus the seed sown in tears, is now growing up for the harvest.

"While I was with them, we both prayed and sang hymns in the native language; this work has gone on seriatim, and I now hold in my hand a little book containing part chapters of the Old and New Testament, part of the Xtian Service, and Catechism, and some hymns, in New Zealand; so that now they may read in their own tongue the wonderful works of God."

Butler finally winds up an excellent discourse: "These works of faith, and labour, and love, shall give a fragrance to

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your character, and like the rose send forth a sweet perfume, long after your bodies are laid in the dust."

In another very long peroration occurs: "I frankly acknowledge that I never learned the blessings of civilized life, and civilized society, but by their loss, till I was cooped up in a heathen land, and shut out from the ordinance of God." And again: "Having myself lived among savages and cannibals, it has been my lot to mark destruction painting her steps with gore, and slavery clanking her chains. I have heard the horrid yell of the war-whoop, and seen human beings sally forth, more fierce than the lion from his den, to slaughter each other, and to drink the blood while reeking from the heart of a fellow-creature, and afterwards to feed upon the flesh with a savage sanguinary delight." Again further on, "If you will permit, I shall now make a remark or two relative to the conduct and success of several of your missionaries abroad, with whom I have the happiness to be acquainted, viz.: Mr. Erskine, Mr. Leigh, Carvasso, Turner, White, Hutchinson, and others. I feel a sacred pleasure in bearing humble testimony to the piety, talent and industry and integrity of these servants of God, both in Van Dieman's Land, N.S. Wales and New Zealand; they have been indefatigable in their exertions, and rendered eminently useful work. They have sought the scattered flock in the woods of New Holland, and been as far as human penetration can go."

C.M. HOUSE,
June 25th, 1830.
Daniel Coates to Revd. J. Butler, enclosing £30, the half cost of Philip King's premium for indenture, and £10 9s 8d, amount laid out on his outfit, desiring Butler "to continue acting for Philip King;" stating the indentures are being forwarded, for Mr. Amis, the employer's, execution; that the boy had been to see his grandfather, and that Butler was to procure the lad's clothes, and impress upon him to look after them.

The remaining £30 is sent under cover date 31/1/1831, to be paid to Mr. Amis for apprenticeship of Philip King.

The last communication 10/10/1832, Daniel Coates to Butler, states: "You will be glad to learn that Philip King is quite well. He is at present on a visit to his grandfather in Oxfordshire, preparatory to returning to New Zealand, which

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the Committee have thought advisable that he should do so by the earliest eligible opportunity. I enclose a bank post bill for £25 2s 0d, being the balance of your account of money expended in Philip King's behalf, and beg you to accept our cordial thanks for all your kind service on his behalf."

[The official records are evidently incorrect, as instead of Philip King being fifteen when he landed in New Zealand in 1814, his family state he was a baby in arms. He returned to New Zealand and took up land, and became clerk of the Court and interpreter at Waiuku. His son was William J. King, also of Waiuku (in 1901.)]

Earle, 1827, in his nine months' residence in New Zealand, writes:--

"The next day we received a visit from Mr. and Mrs. Butler, English people, who had taken up their residence here, for the purpose of trading, and we returned with them on shore, taking our female passengers with us, and leaving them in charge of Mrs. Butler."

This was at Pakanae, up the Hokianga River, whither Samuel and his wife and children had returned to from Parramatta; and where Samuel was drowned in 1836.

1828.--About this date the Revd. John Butler published through G. R. Gittore, of Bridgenorth, a well-bound edition of Psalms and hymns, "Abridged, arranged and adapted to Public Worship, selected from the best authors."

A few of our present day favourites appear therein.

17-11-1834. Samuel Butler writes to his father from Hokianga, New Zealand, acknowledging a letter just to hand, per the C.M. schooner, "Active." He states that Capt. Kent has settled in New Zealand, but that owing to low prices for flax, and high costs in N.Z. of procuring means of trade, pecuniary results are unsatisfactory.

He says: "What we used to get for an axe or a hoe, will now cost a couple of blankets, or what is equivalent, especially when we have to give £2 for a pair which would cost from 7/ to 10/- in London.......Times will not permit bread every day, and drinkables are quite out of the question." He writes warmly of the kindness of Mr. White, Superintendent of the Wesleyan Mission, now of Hokianga, erstwhile of Wan-

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garoa. "The natives are so lazy, and having so much trade amongst them, they cannot be induced to exert themselves." He asks for school books for his children, as there are no schools locally, and says he went across to meet Capt. Brind at the Bay of Islands (a trip which takes from eight to nine days) to see if any had been sent out in answer to his last letter, and to his great disappointment found not even a letter.

He mentions having found Capt. Duff a cargo in four months, for a vessel two hundred tons greater than one which took nine months to fill by another agent. On arrival of the latter vessel in England, the ship and cargo were sold to cover expenses.

He records having met Messrs. King and Kemp of the Bay of Islands; that he purchased three hundred to four hundred acres on the Waima, joining the N.Z. Company's land, Herd's Point. He had also been acting as interpreter for a brig, the "Dorothy," Capt. Newbold, from England.

18-13-35. He again writes to his father (who at that time evidently contemplated returning to the colonies). S.B. states that there are now one hundred and twenty Europeans in the Hokianga, and several of them respectable families, and that his holding is about seven hundred acres. Continuing he writes:--

"Baron De Thierry has sent an official letter to New Zealand to say that he intends to bring an armed force to invade the country, and assume the authority of king over it, and has even gone so far as to offer some of the missionaries a salary, to act as magistrates under him. He says he purchased the rights of the country from Shunghie through his agent, Mr. Kendall. You must recollect the time Mr. Kendall came out, of his speaking about purchasing land for Baron De Thierry. Report says that he is bringing an eighty gun ship from the Spanish Main, and himself has arrived at Otaheite, and is waiting there until she arrives. I have received a copy of his letter from Otaheite, sent me by Mr. Busby, our British Resident, or Consul, from the Bay, to inform us of his intention; also he has sent circulars to all the Europeans (he says in his own letter that he intends to bring an armed force, and recommends the settlers to come under his government). There has been a meeting of natives at the British Residency, in the Bay, who have sent letters requesting him not to come, as they will fight and prevent him landing, and woe be to him if he falls into their hands, for they say that they will

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eat him. Mr. Busby has written to Sydney for force to assist the natives, who I suppose you know is acknowledged as a nation, and allies to the British Nation. The British have given them a national flag, which was acknowledged by the "Alligator," man-of-war, and saluted with thirteen guns from her in the name of His Majesty, William 4th, and accepted by the natives, so now all vessels built here carry the New Zealand flag. I should be glad if you can send me the deeds of King George's farm immediately; land is getting valuable, and persons are purchasing land nearly every day; nearly all the Bay is purchased, and also the River H. If I could show the deeds to Mr. Busby, I could then claim our share. I hope you will not fail in sending them. You will recollect it was purchased between yourself and me, Mr. Hall, and Mr. Kemp. It will be of great service to my family. Samuel John is going to Sydney to my brother-in-law, who has kindly offered to teach him his trade. I am sending this letter by a friend, Mr. Sewell, who takes charge of a schooner named the "Industry." This was a vessel which was coming down here for trade, but three or four days before she reached land, the crew deliberately threw the captain overboard. The mate brought the vessel in here merely by chance, although she was bound here, and immediately gave her up to our Assistant British Resident, or Consul, here. The men have been taken prisoners, and heavily ironed, and a prison made on board; the vessel sails this week, and Mr. Sewell has been engaged to take her up, where the men will suffer the penalty of the law, which I think they well deserve. Two settlers and a guard of natives go with them. You will see that we have an Assistant British Resident in this river, Capt. McDonnell. Samuel John has been interpreter for him these last three months."

Mr. D. O. Guiney writes to Butler under date October 18th 1832, acknowledging receipt of tithes from the tenants, and regretting that the harvest has not been good.

At the end of 1834, Butler writes to Revd. Stephenson, remarking upon the bad harvest experienced; that Mr. Brown had sown four bags of beans, for only one waggon load of straw in return, and that he himself had planted six acres with little better success.

Under date 15-1-1835, Mr. Guiney informs Butler that he is coming down to his parish in the spring, and wishes to have his cottage, now occupied by Butler.

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THE NEW ZEALAND STANDARD.
Presented by the British Government on March 20th, 1834. Chosen from a selection of three, by the Bay of Islands Chiefs, the voting being 12, 10, 6. Saluted by the "H.M.S. Alligator," and with nine cheers from the 120 Europeans there assembled.

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30-4-36. Henry Rose writes to Butler: "I have just received Mr. Guiney's answer to my letter on the subject of his curacies, as follows:--

"In reply to your letter, I can only say that your recommendation of Mr. Butler is so very satisfactory that if I were in want of further assistance, I do not think I would hesitate in closing with him. At present I have no vacancy; should one of my curates leave me, I will write to you under the possibility of Mr. Butler still being disengaged."

3-5-1836. Butler to Ross: "I hope I may succeed with Mr. Gunning; I shall esteem it my greatest happiness, and account it my highest honour and most valued privilege (should it please the Almighty to place me in so great a population) to preach among them the unsearchable riches of Christ....."

Butler's only daughter at this time was dangerously ill, and the constant attention required prevented his seeking any situation.

4-5-1836. Mellor to Butler, acknowledging receipt of Butler's letter in reply to his advertisement, and asking for references, "and also a general idea as to your accustomed style of preaching. My people are mostly poor, many of them accustomed to dissent in former years."

9-5-36. T. W. Mellor of Haddenham, "being happy to find that Butler is still disengaged," asks him to come down and stay for a few days, per the Lynon Coach, and acquaint himself with the circumstantial details of the situation. He followed this with a further letter 14-5-36, stating that having had a reply from the Rev. Mr. Stephenson (Butler's late rector), he would be glad if B. would let him know definitely whether he would undertake his duties for three months.

27-5-36. From High Street, Hampstead, Butler writes to Mr. Henry Rose:--

As you have so kindly interested yourself in our welfare, allow me to lay before you a statement of my present plans and engagements. I am looking forward to going to Wigan to Mr. Gunning by and by, and for this reason I have not sought after any permanent situation.

In the meantime I have undertaken the whole charge of the large and prosperous parish of Haddenham, Isle of Ely, till Michaelmas next, to read and preach three times every Sunday. Mrs. and Miss Butler, who is now recovering from a severe and dangerous illness, will accompany me.

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Perhaps you will be kind enough to write to Mr. Gunning, and inform him of what my plans and arrangements are.

By so doing you will confer a still more lasting obligation, for your kindness on,
Your faithful and obedient servant,
(Signed) JOHN BUTLER.

In July, Mr. Mellor writes instructions of service, viz.:--10.30 a.m., 2.30 p.m., and 6.30 p.m.; the morning service running until 12.10 at the latest. Butler is also asked to occasionally visit and superintend the school and distribute the regular supply of tracts. To this Butler replied at length. He writes: "The people are well satisfied, and anxious for me to remain among them." "The Sunday School is on the increase. Miss B. is actively engaged in it." "I make it a special duty to attend the sick and afflicted. I consider this a most important branch of my office."

Mr. Mellor acknowledged this on July 26th, and expresses appreciation of the successful ministrations. On 15th September, near the termination of Butler's engagement, Mellor again wrote offering a three months' engagement with a Revd. Simpson, of Doncaster. Terms: house, furniture, two horses, servant, coals and milk, and "some pecuniary consideration."

17-8-36. In reply to Mr. Mellor as to how the church is faring, he states that the church is well attended, and that he has paid and terminated, as directed, the two school mistresses --one getting 5/- per week, and the other 4/- per week, for their services; school receipts for the seventeen weeks being £2 17s 9d.

On 3rd September, 1836, a petition bearing five hundred and fourteen signatures was presented to the Venerable Archdeacon Brown, M.A., from the inhabitants of Haddenham.

"We, the churchwardens and other inhabitants of the above parish, beg leave to assure you how deeply we feel for the best interests of the church; and knowing your readiness, and believing how much you are concerned for our spiritual and everlasting welfare, do hereby humbly request, that we may be allowed to retain our present esteemed minister. Mr. Butler, whose labours are not only acceptable to all, but likely to be productive of the greatest good.

"He is an elderly man, and a family man, of a kind and affectionate disposition.

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"He is a faithful preacher of the Gospel, and one who has had a great deal of experience in the world, and everyway suited as a spiritual pastor to supply the wants of a population like ours, and to secure general peace and tranquillity.

"Should the Rev. Mr. Mellor resign at Michaelmas, we hope and trust that the Revd. Mr. Butler may become the object of your election.

"Miss Butler takes an active part in the Sunday School, which is a considerable acquisition."

(Signed) THOS. DRAGE,
ROBT. AMORY,
Churchwardens.

JOSHUA PHILLIPS,
Schoolmaster.

Number of Petitioners, 514.

The petition was presented by Professor Scholefield, of Cambridge; but the patron had promised the nomination before the requisition was put into his hands.

On December 29th, the same churchwardens again wrote:

"This is to certify that the Rev. John Butler hath, during his residence in this parish, conducted himself and performed the arduous duties of an Xtian minister in a truly praiseworthy manner, much to our satisfaction, and everyway calculated to promote the best interests of the people. We much regret his loss."

Rev. Mellor had written on September 7th, to say he would probably be resigning the living, but that it might not be before October 11th; he therefore asked Butler to continue until that date at £2 per week.

He again writes on October 5th:--"I had a visit some few days ago from Mr. Banks, who is nominated as my successor in the living of Haddenham; and I am sorry to learn from him that you had been suffering from indisposition. He informed me, however, that you were still willing to continue your services in that place, and that he had made arrangements for you to do so, subsequently to the 11th inst., when he will become responsible for the services."

Butler wrote to Banks agreeing to carry on, and submitting his plan of services: Aldreth on Thursday evening, Had-

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denham three times on Sunday, a lecture on Wednesday evening, a meeting on Psalmody on Tuesday evening.

Saml. Banks replied on 15th agreeing, and giving instructions. Butler appears to have kept this temporary appointment until Xmas.

Mr. Edwin Daniell, of Stapleford, near Cambridge, wrote to him on the 3rd and 16th January, 1937, offering the position as curate at Stapleford, at £90 per year.

In May, Butler was in London.

In July, the Upper Canada Clergy Society wrote to him, and asking for references from two clergymen; also stating that the salary of their travelling missionaries was £175 per year, and £50 for conveyance from England, and that the appointment was made by the Bishop of Montreal.

The Revd. Mr. M. Caustin stated that Butler had been in his parish for the last five months, and had assisted him.

The Rev. W. R. Stevenson wrote: "You have my best wishes for the plan you mentioned to me. I believe from your experience and habits that the station will be suited for you, and you for the station. I shall at any time testify with great pleasure to the diligence you used during ten years you were my curate at Neenton; the satisfaction I had during the connection, and the attachment of your parishioners, and I am sure Mr. Guiney will do the same for the adjoining parish."

5-7-37. Butler was evidently contemplating formation of a carrying company, as he had been consulting with Messrs. Daniel Beacon and Sons, and estimates the initial expenses at £459 6s 0d.

The last communication is a letter offering him a temporary appointment by a Mr. Ridley, of Herts.

When Bishop Selwyn visited Wellington in 1842, he was presented with an address containing the paragraph, "that having been left so long without regular and authorised administrations and sacrament of the church . . . ."

Up to this date, the Rev. John McFarlane had preached the Gospel, and had baptised one hundred and fourteen children, fifty-three being of English parents, fifty of Scotch, four Irish, five natives, one German, one American. He also married

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seventy-four couples, of whom forty-eight were English, and thirteen Scotch.

The "Bengal Merchant" arrived at Wellington in the middle of February, 1840, with one hundred and fifty Scotch emigrants from the Clyde, and including Mr. McFarlane. This was the first resident clergyman (Rev. Mr. Bumby had selected a Presbyterian site in 1839, when at Port Nicholson, in May of that year).

On April 20th, the "Bolton" arrived, and on the 21st came to anchor, having on board the two first of the Anglican Clergy, to reside in Wellington. These ministers carried out regular services for over a year. McFarlane returned to Argylshire in 1844, at which date the Rev. James Duncan was attending to the Provincial Presbyterians 433; the Rev. Robert Cole to the 1240 Anglican; Revds. J. P. O'Reilly and M. Le Compte to the 177 Roman Catholics; Rev. Jonas Woodward to the 64 Independents; and the Revd. J. Watkin and S. Ironside to the 300 Wesleyans.

In "Wakefield's Adventure in New Zealand," he says:--

"On the 21st another ship, the "Bolton," had arrived from England, bearing among other passengers, the Rev. J. L. Churton, who had been appointed chaplain by a Church Society, in connection with the settlement, and the Rev. J. G. Butler, also a clergyman of the Established Church. The arrival of these two gentlemen had been hailed with much pleasure by the members of the Church of England.

"Previous to this time, the religious duties had been performed by the Rev. John Macfarlane, a minister of the Kirk of Scotland, who had accompanied the colonists from the Clyde in the 'Bengal Merchant,'......The arrival of Messrs. Churton and Butler was a great comfort to all parties......Mr. Butler had come to reside in Pitone, close to Col. Wakefield's house. This gentleman had been a member of the Church Mission in the Bay of Islands in former years, and thus held a commission of the peace from a former governor of New South Wales. The Company, thinking that this might prove of use in the enforcement of our young laws, had been eager to secure his services. Although this piece of parchment from an ex-governor had been of no great weight, Mr. Butler's accession to our Society soon became a very valuable acquisition, not only on account of the ministerial functions which he exercised at Pito-one, but on account of his know-

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ledge of the customs and language of the natives, and his praiseworthy willingness to employ it so as to win their best affection. The Butler family became quite revered by the Pito-one natives."

Before Butler returned to New Zealand, he appears to have been in communication with the New Zealand Association, and duly drafted out his opinions as hereunder:--

(1) It will be necessary in order to more effectually promote the objects in view, to send out to N.Z. a preliminary deputation as soon as possible.

(2) The deputation shall be composed of ------.

(3) The deputation must be delegated with full power to act according to their judgment, or as circumstances may require.

(4) It shall be their chief object, after due examination, to purchase such land, or tracts of country, most eligible for carrying into full effect the plans laid down by the Society; and which seem to them to be most secure from the incursion of strange tribes, and for the security of the English and natives that may reside among them.

(5) In order to effect this desirable object, it will be necessary that the deputation be furnished with all proper articles of barter, for the purchase of such lands, as the natives may be willing to cede into their hands.

(6) It will be highly expedient that some part of the deputation should remain at N.Z., in order to maintain a friendly intercourse with the natives, and to assure them that their expectations of having a body of Europeans to dwell among them, with a view to their benefit and comfort, will soon be realized.

(7) It will be of great importance to have a vessel stationed at N.Z. for the purpose of the safety and accommodation of those who may remain, and of extending their knowledge of the local situations, different tribes, and produce of N.Z.

(8) It will be very advisable to take out two carpenters, who fully understand sawing in all its departments; whose object should principally be to teach the nat-

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ives to saw, etc., in order that a large quantity of scantling and boards, etc., may be prepared for the proposed establishment, whensoever that shall take place.

(9) It is very needful that some person of respectability acquainted with the language, customs, manners, habits and dispositions of the natives, should go out with the deputation, in order to secure the final success of their mission.

Lastly. A person in the capacity of secretary and storekeeper should be sent out with the deputation, who must act on all occasions according to the instructions given him.

When the instructions from the New Zealand Land Company to Colonel Wakefield, a pamphlet of twenty-three pages printed by John W. Parker, London, were given him, the following appears to have been his reply:--

Dear Sir,
I have carefully examined the pamphlet which you were pleased to put into my hands, and after mature consideration, it is my decided opinion that the principles laid down as the basis of the Society's operations are most equitable and just, and only require to be carefully carried into practice, their full meaning and excerpts, by wise and prudent men; and then, after a few difficulties at the commencement, which I trust will soon be surmounted, I doubt not but that the intended settlement in New Zealand will become as flourishing as any that ever belonged to any civilized body, or were added to the British Dominions.

JOURNAL OF A VOYAGE OUT TO NEW ZEALAND, 1840.

JANUARY 1st.--Becalmed about forty-seven degrees off the line.

2nd.--Making about a mile an hour.

3rd.--Drifting backwards. Saw a turtle; lowered a boat and went after it, but was disappointed, it being only a squib fish. Caught a dolphin. A man and boy fell overboard; not hurt, except a good ducking, which they seemed to relish much.

4th.--Went back over ten miles.

5th.--Divine Service held on deck by Mr. Churton. An internal complaint attacking nearly everyone on board.

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7th.--A squall, and good breeze all day. A child buried, named Woodham, making the sixth since we left England.

8th.--A little boy named Nash fell overboard just at the cuddy, dinner-time; was saved; caused a great sensation.

11th.--A little disturbance in the single women's cabin.

12th.--Caught a small shark.

13th.--A vessel close by our side, which proved a Dutchman.

16th.--Crossing the line; winds very favourable.

20th.--The ship's butcher fired at a bird which was hovering round.

23rd.--Off the coast of Bahia, South America.

25th.--Spoke an American whaling ship, lat. 18.15, long. 35.40, the "Rochester" by name.

28th.--A large vessel in sight going in the same direction.

29th.--Another child dead, named Nankeville, making five boys and two girls.

31st.--Sea running very high.

FEBRUARY 1st.--Disturbance with the ------ family, young ------ put in irons, for being impudent to the doctor. The emigrants came up to the captain, and said if ------ was not released immediately, they would release him themselves, and throw the doctor overboard.

FEBRUARY 2nd.--Great confusion below during Divine Service, dogs barking and howling, pigs squealing, and men cursing and swearing in a most shameful manner. Saw a ship and signalled her; "Victoria," from Bristol to Brenan, seventy days out.

3rd.--Mr. Collett's 31st birthday. Messrs. Butler, Churton, Collett, Minett, Wadeson, Douglas, Cole and Drury spent the evening together.

4th.--Vessel in sight.

6th.--Caught a ten foot shark.

7th.--Vessel again in sight.

9th.--Several grampus playing round the ship.

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Albatross seen in the evening.

14th.--A quantity of seaweed around us.

17th.--Passed the Cape of Good Hope at six p.m.

18th.--Caught an albatross, ten feet, tip to tip, on a fish-hook.

21st.--Caught another albatross, nine foot ten.

24th.--Caught three sharks and one albatross.

26th.--Terrible night, the vessel rolling in a most fearful manner; no one had any rest.

28th.--Caught eight albatross.

March 3rd.--Fog.

4th.--Two ships seen in the evening; some penguins around the vessel.

5th.--Seas breaking over the ship; gale blowing.

13th.--Wind off the larboard quarter; saw a sperm whale.

16th.--A tremendous sea struck and deluged the vessel fore and aft.

21st.--Main topsail sheet broke in two; sea struck us at the same time, and came through the windows.

APRIL 1st.--Passed Van Dieman's Land about fifty miles off; weather foggy.

APRIL 4th.--Ship's cook ill with delirium tremens.

5th.--Mrs. Woodman churched, and child christened.

7th.--Mrs. Nankeville has a daughter.

APRIL 9th.--Sixty miles from Cape Farewell at twelve o'clock; ship's cook died; Captain Robinson's cow died.

10th.--Becalmed within sight of N.Z.

11th.--Beating about for Port Hardy.

12th.--Entered the heads of the harbour of D'Urville Island about ten a.m. A native canoe came to meet us. Another canoe came off with a man and child; the man was tattooed all over his face; he also brought a paper relative to one of the vessels having arrived, and left for Port Nicholson.

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A party went round the bay in search of information, but could get none. The first place they went to they saw a boat sail, boat sprit, oar, frying pan, iron pots, tin pots; and the natives seemed very suspicious of us. We suppose there are many natives in the bush, who do not make their appearance.

13th.--The vessel drifted very near the shore in a dangerous position.

14th.--The man and his wife from the first place came on board; fired a gun at his request, to let the natives know they might bring pigs and potatoes; a few came. The gentlemen all went on shore with the native to his place for water. We saw a large canoe full of natives going towards our people; very much afraid they were going to do us some mischief, but they went up and shook hands, and seemed very pleased; they sang and prayed before they retired.

15th.--Purchasing pigs and potatoes; the decks were strewed with potatoes. Two large canoes full went away, the owners were very much displeased.

16th.--Just going to breakfast when Mr. Douglas came to fetch my father, a dispute having arisen among the natives about the water; my father went to make peace; we succeeded, the ship's crew getting as much water as they possibly could. The great chief Mako and his wife came off with the gentlemen who had been on shore, and remained with us until nine p.m. Two natives are going to Port Nicholson with us.

17th.--Two Englishmen came to us from Port Nicholson, belonging to Mr. MacAllum, who brought us some information.

18th.--Mr. MacAllum came about twelve o'clock in a boat, one of the men left on board to pilot us out of Port Hardy.

19th.--Tacking.

20th.--Arrived at Port Nicholson; wind strong out of the harbour; endeavoured to beat in; only a little way into the heads, but had to let go the anchor; fired two guns for a pilot, who came, accompanied by a person named Northwood, a colonist. Mr. Collett went on shore with the gentleman above named, and stayed the night. About half past two Colonel Wakefield came on board; he only stayed a short time.

21st.--We beat in, and anchored in the harbour about one p.m. Went on shore with others, and went to Dr. Evans to inform him of my father's arrival. Mr. E. came on board

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PITONE PA, WELLINGTON.

From a sketch by Brees; Native Chapel on the left. The chief of this district was E Puni, Te Puni or Aponi, the former being now accepted as correct.

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to see him. We had our dinner on shore, quite in gipsy style. The houses are not worth calling houses; such miserable places that we were quite astonished, Mr. Evans' being the only decent house among them all. Came on board about six p.m.

23rd.--Mr. Wakefield came on board with the emigration agent, Mr. Riddiford. The emigrants all went on shore to build their houses. Mr. Butler also went to see the native (missionary?) F. Davis. The people were taken to a spot near to the native village, but the native chief would not let them. He said it was his ground, and had not been purchased by the Company off him, and they should not have it. A meeting with Mr. Williams to be held to-morrow respecting it.

24th.--Mr. Butler went on shore to see about the disputed land; came on board at two p.m., and set off for Brittania with Mr. and Mrs. Collett and Mr. White, to remain over Sunday and preach.

26th.--Mr. Churton went on shore to preach, accompanied by Mr. Minett and Mr. R. Harrison. The sailors went on shore; came back at night very drunk; also some men from the "Adelaide," and off the shore, were on board, and caused a disturbance which was put an end to without much trouble.

30th.--Went on shore to the missionary Davis about some potatoes; secured a ton for Captain Robinson.

MAY 7th.--Bought a house off Captain Gomm. Colonel Wakefield ordered Captain Robinson to take the luggage to Brittania.

MAY 8th.--Set off for Brittania with the goods in the long-boat towed by the cutter, and whale boat; arrived at Brittania about four p.m. and unloaded.

10th.--Went to the Scotch church; Mr. Butler baptized the son of Uriah and Harriet Hunt--named Charles Nicholson Hunt, born 20th January, 1840.

MAY 12th.--Mr. Butler and Colonel Wakefield set out a churchyard.

14th.--Fencing.

17th.--Divine Service held in Mr. Hunter's store room at twelve a.m. After service, Major Baker called Mr. Butler to go to the west end of the beach, to settle a quarrel between a European and the natives about a son of Aponi (Epuni?) being thrust out of doors against his will, and by means of

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PIPITEA POINT, WELLINGTON.

Pipitea and Kumutoto (Bowen St.) Pas were under Wi Tako's father, then an old man; Te Aro Pa does not appear to have had a chief of rank; the next pa was under Kaihaia (alias Taringakuri), being at Kai Warra Warra, and the other chief, Pukawa, on the Hutt River.
(From a sketch by Brees.)

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force. An inquest was held on the body of H. R. Eaton who was speared by a native, before Major Baker, etc. After the inquest, Mr. Butler buried him.

23rd.--Borrowed a canoe off the natives to fetch some brush to finish the fence.

24th.--Mr. Butler preached to a large congregation; Dr. Evans and Major Durie from Thorndon were there.

25th.--A hurricane all night. A fire broke out in Cornish Row, which destroyed fifteen dwellings, and nearly all the people's goods.

26th.--A dreadful earthquake took place at five thirty a.m.; all our houses rocked in a most fearful manner. We all ran out quite terrified, but then returned to bed. After three quarters of an hour we heard an explosion and a small shake. Upon enquiry we found there had been two earthquakes prior to this, and since the arrival of the Europeans, but nothing so bad as this.

MAY 27th.--Another shock of earthquake.

28th.--Came back from a walk; in Atoru's canoe; about thirty natives had a meal of rice.

29th.--Two vessels arrived, one named the "Bee," from Sydney, reported the loss of the "Aurora" off Kaiparoa. The "Sally Ann," from Bay of Islands, which reports the loss of two more vessels off the coast.

30th.--A disturbance arose between some of the Scotch settlers and the natives about a knife; they came to Mr. Butler to settle the affair. One of the Scotchmen had hit one of the natives with a piece of wood on the side of the head, and made it bleed. They went into his house and took a blanket for payment.

31st.--A "Charity" sermon preached for the benefit of the sufferers by the fire. Seven pounds were collected.

ABRIL 1st.--Ngatakahuni came in the morning. Mr. Butler and Mr. Breary went to Capt. Smith's to marry a couple, Mr. By. acting as clerk. Mr. Butler went to the pa, and had a long talk with the natives.

2nd.--Mr. B. and C. I. B. went to the east end of the beach to marry another couple, but Mr. MacFarlane had already married them.

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N'HOURANGA.

Ngahauranga, from a drawing by Brees. This was the Pa of Wharepouri; his memorial, a canoe centre portion, can he seen upon uprights. In later years, a split end of a canoe was placed on end, above the road at the W.M.E. Co. entrance; even this has now gone. Wharepouri was buried at Pitone, 1843.
The mark of peace between Wharepouri and Nukupewapewa, of Ngatikahungungu, is located near Whakataki, erected by the sons of Hine i te Aorangi, and the stone is called by the latter name.

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4th.--Went to Thorndon with Mr. Butler, C.I.B., F., and Mr. Moreing in Atoru's canoe. The Queen's Proclamation was read by Mr. Shortland, secretary to Governor Hobson, taking possession of New Zealand.

9th.--Building a house.

11th.--While at dinner a person of the name of Todd came and wanted Mr. Butler to go to his house and pacify some natives who were pulling his fence down.

14th.--Mr. and Mrs. Riddiford drank tea with us.

18th.--Attending to several invalids (gave two natives biscuits); Dr. Dorset prescribed.

19th.--Matangi dined with us.

21st.--Epuni, a chief, dined with us, by special invitation, and behaved remarkably well.

22nd.--About twenty natives had a meal of rice, bought a pig from a strange native for a blanket and twelve fish-hooks. Capt. Robinson took English letters and sent them to Sydney per ship "Hope."

23rd.--To Dr. Heely's to agree with the natives about a house which they had built. Atoru dined with us. Gave some hymn books to some strangers.

25th.--A native from Kapiti sold a pig to a person named (Barry?) a constable, who agreed to give him £1 and one blanket. He gave the native the sovereign, killed the pig, and then would not give the blanket; the native declared he would not keep the money without the blanket, and there was a great disturbance. Mr. Riddiford came to Mr. Butler, and they went to (Barry?), who was very saucy; the native left the sovereign with Mr. Butler. Mr. Pierie had offered £2 for the pig, but the native wanted the blanket. Mr. Butler gave the native a 12qr. blanket, value £1 10s 0d.

26th.--Went to Pipitea in the canoe with Aponi. Mr. Butler visited Mr. Shortland, and had a long conversation. Mr. Riddiford went and returned with us. Went on board the "Bolton." Capt. Robinson kindly received us; gave the natives rum and biscuits.

27th.--Atoru went with the canoe to Thorndon to tow a raft of timber for Mr. Moreing.

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TWO MAORI CHIEFS--Te Puni, or "Greedy," and "Wharepouri, or "Dark House."

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28th.--Mr. Butler baptised Helen Chaffers, daughter of Daniel and Harriet Riddiford. Capt. Chaffers stood godfather, and myself as proxy for a lady in England. Miss Riddiford could not come, it was so rough.

29th.--Mr. Duppa's boat drifted away. Mr. Butler agreed with three natives to go with Mr. Duppa; they returned and had supper with us. Waitura and Makuri dined with us. Atoru returned from Ngahauranga with his wife, who is very ill; we gave her some tea. Buried James Wilson, aged thirty-seven, seaman belonging to the "Bolton," who was drowned in attempting to cross the River Hutt.

JULY 1st.--A large meeting held in the Exchange to petition Captain Hobson to make this place the seat of government. Col. Wakefield was publicly solicited to convey the petition in person to the Bay of Islands. Mr. Butler, Epuni, and two of his sons, put up two notice boards, one on each of the native farms, forbidding anyone trespassing thereon.

3rd.--Natives up the river to cut rushes, flax and nikau for our house.

4th.--A native lad stole two tomahawks from Mr. Telford, who put him in irons, and came up to Mr. Butler requiring his assistance in this affair. Matanga and his wife here to breakfast; Epuni dined with us. Married James Williams of Cloudy Bay, and Jane Florence. Mr. Smith, Saml. Florence and myself present.

5th.--Divine Service as usual.

JULY 7th.--"Bolton" sailed for England.

8th.--Epuni to breakfast.

9th.--Matangi breakfasted with us.

10th.--Epuni to breakfast; up river for boards for house; hurricane.

JULY 13th.--Engaged in the morning correcting the native language for the press.

14th.--Mr. Butler looking over N.Z. language. Our yard has been full of natives all day. Makiri, Epuni's son, spent the evening.

15th.--Mr. Butler reading N.Z. corrections to the natives, to know if they are according to their pronunciation. Awari, Epuni's son, to breakfast.

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16th.--Dreadful storm.

19th.--Divine Service as usual; Mr. Hunter rang a bell for the service.

21st.--Sold Mr. Riddiford three pairs of blankets and hatchet to pay for his house at Thorndon.

27th.--Mr. Butler went to Thorndon to attend a meeting about the division of the town land, to see that the natives were not imposed upon. Attended the funeral of a native at Pipitea.

28th.--Mr. Butler went to Thorndon about the division of land; he protested against the native pas being taken; there were some choices, chosen in the pa, but the governor protested against the native land being taken away from them.

AUGUST 6th.--A large fire up the river.

AUGUST 7th.--Waitera putting the mats on the sides of the house.

8th.--Wharepouri came to Mr. Collett's, and behaved himself very indecently, and remained all day.

9th.--Wharepouri here in company with Mr. Smith, the constable, and had a long conversation.

10th.--Wharepouri gone, as he says, to fetch some strange natives and make a fight.

13th.--Gave Waitera one adze.

16th.--Christened William John, son of George and Sarah Spackman.

17th.--Col. Wakefield came back.

20th.--Mr. and Mrs. Collett, Mrs. Stokes, and Mr. Lewis drank tea with us.

22nd.--Paid the natives for building house two pairs blankets, £6; two pairs, £2; three gowns, £1 16s 0d; four shirts, £1; three axes, 15/-; four planeirons, 4/-; money, £4; total, £17 5s 0d.

AUGUST 25th.---Mr. Coglan's boat upset about two miles off. Mr. Collett and Mr. Child put off their boat to their assistance, and rescued them just in time. Mr. Fowler's boat upset on the beach opposite our house; eight or nine drowned, viz.: William Elsdon, William Lancaster, Chas. Rogers, Josiah

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Tucker, John Griffin, Martin Augustus, John Pierie, William Hight. Mr. Butler went down to Thorndon in Mr. Roskell's boat. He went on board the "Platina," and remained all night.

26th.--The body of Rogers picked up at Waiwetu.

28th.--The bodies were buried in very solemn manner, almost the whole of the settlement attending. Mr. Butler performed the service; Mr. MacFarlane concluded with prayers.

30th.--"Platina" left for Thames. Messrs. Collett and Childs on board. Two earthquake shocks during the night.

SEPTEMBER 17th.--Mr. Hopper drowned in the river. He was sitting in the bows of the boat, which, striking a snag, tossed him out of it, and it is supposed stunned him. A native named Waitupi came and disputed the land at Koro Koro; said he would set fire to the house and burn it down.

19th.--A tremendous storm blew the schooner "Jewess" high and dry opposite Allen's.

20th.--Mr. Hopper buried.

21st.--Paid Mr. Hughes the balance of the account for the churchyard. The brougham came down to take away the Colonel's goods to Britannia.

23rd.--Two Europeans and three Maoris were attacked by Ngatikahingungu; they took one man, two women, and two children prisoners, and set them down at Waiwetu.

25th.--Mr. Allen's boat, returning from Britannia, picked up a body drowned at the upsetting of Mr. Fowler's boat; they buried him.

28th.--Severe earthquake.

29th.--Great alarm at the firing of guns. Upon Messrs. Hunt, Henry and Judd enquiring, it was found to be the Scotch firing at a target.

OCTOBER 2nd.--A vessel lying outside the harbour.

8th.--News came that Mr. Butler had returned from the Thames in the schooner "Elizabeth."

11th.--Mr. Roskell and the two Mr. Wallaces went to Thorndon.

13th.--A house burnt down; only a trunk of clothing saved.

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14th.--Mr. Eaton died.

16th--Buried Richard Adolphus Eaton (County of Salop). Mr. Barton, Mr. Hunter, Mr. Stokes, and Mr. Butler went to Mr. Alzdorf's to meet the children, and read the will.

19th.--The Maoris, assisted by Mr. Butler and Mr. Hunter, re-floated the "Jewess."

29th.--A. little girl named Isaac was drowned in the river opposite her father's dwelling.

30th.--Epuni came about Mr. Barrow keeping cows on the Native Reserve.

31st.--Epuni came again about the cows. Waihipa's wife asked Mrs. Collett about them. The natives are determined no European shall have any wood or land without payment.

NOVEMBER 1st.--Buried Elizabeth Mary, daughter of Francis and Mary Isaac, late of Walworth Road, London; aged three years, nine months.

NOVEMBER 10th.--Epuni and Amoi had breakfast with us. Mr. Butler and myself went up to Mr. Read's place to settle a difference, which arose by the natives cultivating an old garden chosen by Mr. Molesworth in a country section, and let to Mr. Read. The natives were not willing to resign it and go upon their own land, which is only a short distance beyond. Mr. Butler made them fully understand that the ground belonged to the English; they said they would give it up after their crop was off, to which Mr. Read was agreeable.

13th.--Gave Epuni four quarts maize, and Tuarau two quarts, to set their land.

14th.--The "Martha Ridgway," from England, with emigrants, also three other vessels. The news from home is very encouraging; two more vessels with emigrants are immediately expected. She is under quarantine with one case of smallpox on her.

NOVEMBER 17th.--A vessel came in this morning in beautiful style.

21st.--The "Eleanor" left for Sydney.

28th.--Mr. Hunter's family left, and have gone to live on the other side.

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DECEMBER 3rd.--Epuni and many of the natives have gone to their land at "Waiderup." Epuni said he would be away two moons.

5th.--The "Cuba" came in this morning with the deputation. Mr. Watts came and brought a native, charged with stealing a silver spoon; the native was chastised.

6th.--Up the river in the afternoon; chatted with the natives at the pa.

12th.--The "London" came in with two hundred and eighty emigrants from the Plymouth Company, fired a salute of twenty-one guns; a small vessel also came in.

13th.--The "Patriot" arrived with a large mail. She left before the "Martha Ridgway," but was detained at Launceston.

15th.--Mr. Butler attended the big public meeting; a great deal of discussion took place, and matters were finally and amicably arranged.

16th.--Shock of earthquake.

24th.--Buried William Richards, seaman, aged forty-two.

25th.--Married Thos. William Tankersley to Sarah Draper--Mr. Telford and Mr. Burcham present, also Mr. Burgess and Mrs. Turner.

27th.--Went up the river to preach to the sawyers; many people attended, and behaved with great seriousness. A large barque, the "Blenheim," from Scotland, laden with emigrants, arrived. The natives kept four days "ra tapu."

JANUARY 1st, 1841.--In strolling through the bush, saw a large amount of land cultivated by the natives; also a cleared and sheltered valley about three miles over the hills. Took some food to Amui, Epuni's brother, who had returned from "Waiderop" very ill.

2nd.--Epuni and tribe returned, and brought many pigs; we met them when they landed.

3rd.--Began a Sunday School, Mr. Burgess assisting; about a dozen attended.

6th.--Apaki came to breakfast.

12th.--Major Baker and his lady, and Miss Hargreaves and Miss Harrison came to invite me to attend the ball to commemorate the foundation of the colony, on 22nd inst.

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14th.--Disturbance between the natives and the constable relative to a pig; the natives were very fierce, and would have pulled the watch-house down. Epuni went for Mr. Butler, who told the constable that unless the native was liberated there would be bloodshed, that he would be answerable for the native appearing.

JANUARY 15th, 1841.--Went to Wellington. Epuni and the natives took Awhanga before Mr. Murphy, who awarded the pig to the natives, who had brought it from "Waiderop."

16th.--A child drowned in the Hutt, aged two and a half, belonging to a Scotchman named Alexander Yule; buried next day.

19th.--Mr. Todd died.

21st.--Mr. Dicks, the sexton, eame up in the evening, saying the Maoris had taken a rope he had borrowed from Mr. Telford. On our conferring with Epuni, he said a lad belonging to Mr. Johnson the undertaker, had taken the rope home, saying it was his.

22nd.--Walked over to Wellington to attend the ball in commemoration of the foundation of this colony; had a splendid attendance, and were much amused. The ball broke up at five thirty on Saturday morning.

23rd.--The boat race and hurdle race took place; Petoni boat won the prize. Mr. Watt won the hurdle race. Mr. Molesworth rode Mr. Hort's horse, and fell twice.

24th.--Buried Martha Ridgway, daughter of George and Susan Saywell; born September 23rd, 1840; aged four months.

27th.--Mr. Garner, the constable, came, and with Mr. Butler went to the Maoris' gardens. The white people's pigs are destroying the natives' plantations; they are always coming and complaining about them. Tuarau came to say he had caught a pig belonging to Mr. Macfarlane. He claimed damages; Mr. Macfarlane said he would pay by and by, at which the native seemed much grieved.

28th.--There is a great meeting at Wellington of the natives and an Englishman; the man claims Port Nicholson as his property, and called the natives together to corroborate the statement; we have not heard the result.

29th.--The natives rather troublesome owing to the white people's pigs getting in to their gardens.

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30th.--Apaiki and another native brought a load of palings for the garden, for which they had their dinners and one shilling each. Amoi dined with them.

(End of the Diary of Hannah Butler.)
Weather details omitted.

With the cessation of this last journal, kept by Butler's daughter, our personal contact with this pioneer missionary of New Zealand ceases.

This land of our adoption has been endowed from the embryo of the days of Marsden to the day when it becomes a Dominion and fellow-partner in the Councils of Empire, with a type of settler of which any nation would be proud.

Our immense cities, gardens, every valuable adjunct of our civic progress, have been built upon the initial labours of our precursors. Do they receive the homage that is their due? To those who would erase honoured names from the scroll of our pioneers, the names attached to streets, towns, hills, valleys, etc., perpetuating in memory our veneration of prior association; to those who assert "tempora mutantur, et nos mutamur in illis" as a pretext, and adopt the selfish theory of "Posterity! What has posterity done for us?" there is only one answer: "As you set the seal of precedent upon your action, so may posterity deal with you, and efface your link of effort from the chain of progression in the making of our history."

In many an unknown grave in New Zealand, in many a neglected churchyard, lies dust, deep down; sanctified in a life of honest toil, integrity and perserverance. "E'en in our ashes live their wonted fires." Among these, the life-work of John Butler claims its comradeship.

In conclusion, may we query the correctness of the accusation against Butler, and Mr. Marsden's disinterestedness in the matter?

Butler resided in New Zealand, Mr. Marsden at Parramatta, N.S.W. Marsden himself writes, "Though I do not think you are addicted to that sin." The testimony of his fellow-workers and colleagues is confirming as to sobriety. The Wesleyan missionaries, with whom he was in close touch, approve his conduct, acknowledge his assistance, and state the

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PIPITEA POINT, WELLINGTON. From a painting by Capt. W. Mein Smith, in 1850.

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injustice meted out to him. His character was clear before he came to New Zealand. His testimonials from 1825 to 1837 are all excellent; and lastly we have the statement of E. J. Wakefield: "The name of Butler was quite revered at Pitoone."

Towards the end of 1840, Butler had completed his manuscript of the Maori language, which he had commenced when first in New Zealand.

He wrote to Colonel Wakefield, principal agent of the New Zealand Company.

June 24th, 1820.
Sir,
Whereas the major part of the materials contained in the present number, and those which will succeed in this treatise, have heretofore undergone the examination and scrutiny of that profound scholar, Professor Lee, of the University of Cambridge, it may be concluded that the elements and principles of the New Zealand language are satisfactorily laid down on a good foundation.

An authority like this cannot fail (I imagine) to recommend a small work of this nature to the notice and perusal of colonists and others, who may be desirous to obtain a competent knowledge of the language, in order to convey their ideas and sentiments to the natives.

The work was called "Butler's Help and Guide to the New Zealand Language."

Dedicated by permission, to Col. William Wakefield, principal agent for the New Zealand Land Company.

By their humble
And obedient servant,
J. G. BUTLER.

Britannia, Port Nicholson, New Zealand, 1840.
Printed by Samuel Revans.

This treatise must still be in existence. Part of the rough draft is in the possession of the descendants, part was lent to a resident of Wellington, who, instead of returning it, re-lent it to the late Mr. Alex. Turnbull, and the whereabouts cannot be traced.

The notice of his death is terse, and is contained in the New Zealand Journal, published in London on Saturday, January 8th, 1842.

"It is our melancholy duty to record the death of the Rev. John Gare Butler, Native Guardian and Interpreter to the New Zealand Land Company, at twenty-five minutes past two o'clock on the afternoon of Friday, the

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18th June, 1841. The reverend gentleman suffered intensely during a period of ten weeks, and leaves a numerous circle of friends to lament his loss; he was in his 60th year."

"

The mortal remains of John Butler lie in their sable shroud, the leviathans of the ocean pass above; may his immortal soul rest in peace and tranquillity until that Day when he, who carried the torch of enlightenment to the far-flung shores of a new Britain, who faced danger, disease and death in inculcating the tenets of his "calling" among a brave, fierce and warlike people, shall receive the meed of praise from his Master, Whom he endeavoured faithfully to serve.

He was buried on the Pitoone Beach on Gear Island, and the grave, with many others, was swept away to the sea by the River Hutt.

His widow, who shared his dangers and privations, is buried in the old churchyard, Lower Hutt; his daughter in St. John's, Trentham; and his only son, Samuel, on the bank of the Hokianga Harbour, where he was drowned in 1836, and buried by the Rev. N. Turner, a pioneer missionary.

We take the liberty of inserting, out of sequence, the following testimonial, which has just come to light:--
5-7-37. Mr. D. O. Gurney. "I have no hesitation in declaring that, during the time you were my curate at Aston Bottrell--a period I believe, of nearly eight years--the services were performed quite regularly, and to my complete satisfaction. Moreover, that I found you ready at all times to assist me in every way in your power. This you are at liberty to make use of where and when you like."

It seems opportune to include herein, as an appendix, several letters (written by the husband of Hannah Butler prior to his marriage) which deal with the sailing of the first of the New Zealand Company's emigrant ships, and the initial stages of Wellington's foundation.

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Appendix.

LETTERS BY THE HUSBAND OF HANNAH BUTLER.

9th February, 1840.
Ship "Oriental," Port Nicholson, Cook's Strait, New Zealand.

We arrived here on the afternoon of 31st January, after an excellent passage of one hundred and thirty-eight days; and I've since seen sufficient of the climate, soil, and capabilities of the country to convince me none in the world can excel it. Here is to be found everything that constitutes the romantic and sublime, and it seems arranged so tastefully, that it has made an impression upon us all; and I might say, insensible indeed must be the soul that can look at it with indifference.

I will run over a narration of our passage out.

14th SEPTEMBER, 1839.--Invited by the directors to dine on the "Mercury," steamship, on the Thames. First, after leaving London Bridge, ran down to Gravesend, visited the "Aurora," "Adelaide," and our own ship, the "Oriental;" read and signed articles on board. The Sutherland Highlanders dressed in uniform looked well and were much applauded, stepped on board the "Oriental" that night from the "Mercury," amid much cheering and congratulations.

15th SEPTEMBER.--Weighed anchor, and dropped down the river. During the following week in company with the "Aurora" and " Adelaide," part of our squadron, and finally weighed from the "Downs" on the 21st, passed the I.W. (Isle of Wight) on the 24th, and though at a great distance, could discern by our glasses many well-known spots.

The wind down channel was unfavourable and sea heavy, yet our good ship beat through, and on Saturday, 28th, we saw the last objects in England, Eddystone and Start lights; from thence we had a fine run to the Cape Verde Islands, and dropped anchor off the small capital Portopraia, Isle of St. Iago, on the evening of 16th October.

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OCTOBER 17th.--Went on shore with the captain, called on the British Consul; kind reception; invited to dine the next day; saw much of the town and country.

18th.--On shore to the Consul's; saw his lady, a Portuguese. The whole population appears to be a mixture of Portuguese and African negroes. Very attentive to us; walked through the beautiful orange, lemon, lime, tamarind, bananas, and guavas. Thermometer, 88. Laid in a large supply of excellent fruit.

19th.--Weighed anchor, and soon after met with the variable winds which detained us near the line some weeks; was hereabout in sight of another ship for some days, at last made out by signal the "Brankensman," bound to South Australia with emigrants, among whom I had some acquaintance; lowered our boat and went on board her with our captain. On returning late at night, Sandy and two or three more of the Highlanders came up and entreated me not to go in an open boat again.

8th NOVEMBER.--Passed the line in longitude 20. Compensated Father Neptune by giving our seamen 5/-. Thermometer in my cabin, 85; in some parts of the ship much hotter. My usual pastime was reading from six until breakfast (nine o'clock), then walk on the deck, and talk with all around, visit my own people, and attend to any request from them, return to my cabin and read until dinner, three o'clock. Rise from table about five. In good weather upon deck, otherwise to cabin; tea at seven, grog at nine; lights out at ten. On fine nights I generally stand hours afterwards on deck, beholding the cheerful space of the spangled heavens, conversing with those whose tastes lay the same way. Cards, chess, and backgammon was the amusement of many, but I never joined either.

We ran down the South American coast in about long. 32, or very near it, and at noon 26th November, high land appeared on the lee bow, and soon after more ahead, which proved to be the Islands of Tristan D'Acunha. Lat. 37 south, long. 12 west. We weathered them before night, coasting the easternmost for miles, which rises abruptly from the ocean for, it is said, nine thousand feet high; it appeared to be of volcanic origin like the Cape Verde, but its outline was rugged and desolate. Myriads of birds swarmed around, and many

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fell by our passengers' guns, and one albatross upwards of ten feet across its wings.

We soon after made lat. 40 S., and long. 8, and kept south of the Cape of Good Hope about four hundred miles to avoid its currents, and stood along the parallel the remaining part of our passage, eighty-two degrees, or more than half the circumference of the globe. Saw nothing more until we arrived at New Zealand, except on 6th January, latitude 42 S., longitude 129 east, a whale ship was announced, a long way head under, whose stern we passed about noon as she lay-to cutting up a whale. She proved to be an American, out five months; had one hundred and forty-two tons oil, and expected to complete in four months more, and call at New Zealand on her way home to New Jersey. We expected to have obtained a sight of Van Dieman's Land, but were driven off by gales too far south, and soon after passing its meridian, stood N.E. until the evening of the 20th January.

Much excitement and looking out for Cape Egmont and its eternal snow-clad mountain, said to be fourteen thousand feet high. On looking from my cabin window on the morning of 21st January at daybreak, a portentous haze hung on the eastern horizon, and soon after as the sun broke through its beams were distinctly seen playing on Mt. Egmont's snowy top, while a broad wreath of fleecy mist enveloped its base.

Our rendezvous, Port Hardy, D'Urville Island, being only one hundred miles due south, we now stood direct for it, and about noon came in sight of land on all sides, which proved to be Blind Bay, in which lies D'Urville Isle, but some heavy gales coming in, we were obliged to run out to sea again for the night, and on the 22nd January sailed in and found Port Hardy.

It is beautifully formed by one of those coves common in New Zealand, the ground on each side rising with rugged slope, and adorned with shrubs of delightful fragrance to the water's edge. It was in one of these reaches, surrounded on all sides by hanging woods, that we dropped anchor in the afternoon. At the entrance we passed a small canoe in which there were three natives fishing, and on beckoning to them, they came on board and bartered their fish and some potatoes they had with them for old clothes, refusing silver coin. These poor people are of a copper colour, their whole dress consisting of check shirt, tied round the middle by a branch of tree.

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Although they were of the lowest caste in their country, or slaves, they displayed a mental acuteness, and gave us to understand that if we fired one of our cannon, white men with instructions would come. On leaving us they engaged to bring more fish in the morning, which they did, and then set a hill on fire as a sign to their tribe.

23rd JANUARY.--Went on shore with Messrs. Petre (son of Lord Petre), Molesworth (brother of Sir Wm.), Sinclair, and Duppa, and took the gardener, Walker (one of my Sutherlanders) to the woods to inspect the beautiful shrubs; this, with the noise of the birds and their beautiful plumage, was almost enchanting. On going on board to dinner, found a number of natives had arrived, the chief and his wife among others, bringing pigs, fish, poultry, vegetables in abundance. Most of these were tolerably well dressed in the fashion of their country, splendid mats the size of a good blanket; but "Europa" fashion is all the go now, and the chief's lady, with other ladies of quality, appeared in our fashion with tolerable good grace, as their figures are fine; and from what I then saw, and have duly observed since, I am inclined to believe the benevolent views of the Missionary Society will be realised. Many of those on board had good books given them by the missionaries, some even a Testament in the N.Z. language, and were extremely solicitous for pencils and paper to write, which we gave them. They are a fine race of people, and our ladies declared some of them would have been very handsome if not made frightful by tattooing.

24th.--Two white Englishmen living among the natives, probably whale-deserters, or runaway convicts, came with letters for us to proceed to this place.

JANUARY 25th.--Weighed anchor at daylight; much difficulty in working the ship out of the narrows as the wind blew in; got clear out the next morning, wind S.E. direct against us; beat the whole way through the straits, saw much of both the North and South Islands; volcanic origin and wooded close to the shore in most places.

31st.--Entered Port Nicholson; a strong N.W. wind down the harbour; it was only by hard beating we came to our anchorage about sunset. The "Cuba," "Aurora," and a small Sydney merchant ship on speculation, saluted, which we returned on coming to.

FEBRUARY 1st.--Alone found the channel, rowed up the river to a native pa or town; a grog shop kept by a sus-

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picious white man attracted our people's attention (this man boarded us at the mouth of the harbour the evening before, gave his name as Rose; spoke the broad west Highland dialect. Mr. Sinclair asked me to get what information from him I could, and we three then retired to my cabin). This civility was now returned; he came to the shore, procured us grass to send on board for the cows, and treated us with extraordinary attention; around him about half a dozen white men (British) much inclined to look anywhere than to show us their faces. There seemed to be about a dozen native houses in this town, and the gardens surrounding them were tolerably well kept, containing Indian corn, pumpkins, kumeras, and potatoes.

The evening of 31st January. This is a most splendid harbour, and the capabilities of the country around insures it under providence, of success.

1st FEBRUARY.--By a formal introduction, I soon became acquainted with Col. Wakefield, an excellent person, and chief agent to the N.Z. Company, and who sat next to me on coming on board, as we came up the harbour; he invited me on quitting the ship in the evening to accompany him to explore the river and sound the bar the next morning. Many of my young friends on board wished to go; fortunately it rained in the morning, when I took eight of my own men, and started with them alone. On landing I allowed the men to go through the country; the gardener kept with me; the day cleared up, and the country looked beautiful.

The natives seemed much pleased at our coming to settle among them. On going through a wood I saw a native with a double-barreled gun shooting pigeons and beckoned to him. We were without even a pistol. He spoke some English, and on my admiring the size and plumage of the pigeons, he begged me to accept them in that earnest manner, that I could not refuse him. He then took us to the maize field and potato ground, which was well enclosed and kept; he next pressed us to go to his house, where we found he was a native missionary teacher. He gave us an account of the wars between these tribes; said he used to shoot "Manene" (strangers), which was very bad. "No shoot man more, but shoot pigeons now." He has visited me since.

I have been up the river with the Colonel, and found a valley of many hundred of thousands of acres of the finest land in the world which he has purchased of the natives for

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our habitation, but at present one entire coppice, which we have already begun to clear; the few natives on the coast--there seem to be none in the interior--help us. The head of the tribe on the river is become my particular friend, and brought his three sons on board this morning for me to take my choice of to live with me; the eldest, about sixteen, a fine and very intelligent fellow, came to my cabin after I was up, and speaking some English engaged, "You give me clothes, I build your house, you give me book."

FEBRUARY 4th.--Went on shore with a large party for the purpose of erecting temporary cottages, until the surveyors can give us our allotments. Emigrants allowed 20/- per week; mechanics grumbling at being reduced to labourers.

Selected a beautiful situation on the river bank, about three miles from its mouth; rise of tide at this spot, two feet one and a half inches, but in no ways brackish at high water, five o'clock, second day of the moon. Heard of some dispute among both cabin and steerage passengers about......
(Remainder of this narrative is missing.)

August 24th, 1841.

My Dear Sir,
I addressed a few lines before to you upon our arrival here, by a small vessel then leaving this port, merely announcing our safe and excellent passage; since which I have had many opportunities for observation, and believe no other country possesses more natural resources than New Zealand, while the romantic and sublime scenery with which it abounds is particularly striking. Both Islands are mountainous, some parts to the height of perpetual snow, and the lesser hill and dale covered with beautiful evergreens. Myrtles and other of our choice English plants and shrubs here flourish in wild luxuriance, and attain gigantic size, while many of the culinary vegetables, turnips, radishes, onions, carrots, etc., of excellent quality spring up when we clear the land of scrub, and are apparently indigenous to the soil.

From the backward state of the survey, and the constant distant prospect of obtaining our allotments of land, on my arrival I engaged the Surveyor-General to employ myself and pupil on his staff, and cut survey lines through the thickest of the country. Our friends there have been compensated by the excitement of discoveries in a new country: at one time a vegetable--at another, a mineral would present itself to us; even at mid-day we found ourselves immersed in the dark forest, where the thick foliage above obscured even the face of the compass, when probably on a sudden the cutting line would open on some hillside and exhibit a most magnificent scene around. Birds of the most splendid plumage came constantly within our reach unconscious that man was an enemy. The smallness of many was their protection, but the ducks, pigeons and some others supplied us with half our food.

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I must now give you a short sketch of our copper-coloured neighbours. The native men are of a firm and stately form, but the women who are the slaves of their lords, are in general ugly; both tattoo, the women slightly, but as we ridicule their tattooing, the young people say, "No more tattoo."

The sixteen tribes, or rather families, who inhabit this extensive district, came overland several years ago from about one hundred and fifty miles north-west, and in their five months' route, fought through upwards of thirty other tribes, and out of the three hundred and seven warriors who exiled themselves from their native land (from the dread of being devoured by a powerful neighbouring tribe), only one hundred and sixteen reached this place. They have since been converted to Christianity, but retain many of their former superstitions, yet improve daily from their intercourse with us; it is allowed they are an intelligent race, and capable of being brought shortly to a high state of civilization.

On first landing here, I fixed my residence with the Sutherland people on the banks of the river above all other emigrants, and between two small tribes of natives, who supply us with pigs and vegetables in abundance and take old clothes in return; and except a momentary dispute with two or three of our young men who gave a dozen of the natives a sound thrashing, the harmony has never been disturbed. The morning after the encounter, I was invited to a "Karahow" (korero), or meeting with the chief of the tribe, to discuss the subject, and after much explanation and an observation from an elderly native, that the slight shock of earthquake that we had the same night was caused by "Atua" for their making fight (to which I nodded assent) a mutual exchange of presents took place, a dozen baskets of potatoes was sent to my hut, and a pig tapued or set aside to be fattened on purpose for me, which the honest man has since brought, and in return I gave him a bag of rice, some sugar, and about twelve yards of calico; it was also mutually agreed we were to banish the ringleaders of each party.

Be assured, we are under no apprehension from the natives, and although a bold and manly race, and ready to exchange blow for blow with us, they are too conscious of our superiority, and have too much sense to injure us, as their conversion, and connection with Europeans have been the salvation of the few inhabitants left. Previous to this era, the tribes were constantly at war, and devouring each other. At this time I believe these fertile islands, blest with the best climate in the world, do not contain more than twenty thousand Mouri, or native inhabitants.

They are assuming our manners and customs with alacrity, and everything is now Europa fashion with them. The young men are learning to read and write, and several of them work daily with our people, who are delighted with their honest and manly deportment. Our colony is at present in a disagreeable state of suspense, from a dread of our large landholders have of the bill in progress in Sydney, depriving the colonists of their land by not recognising their title, given out last week, from a supposition they will fall back upon the company for redress. For my part I think possession everything, and took it immediately.

Republican feeling has been very predominant here, and dissent from the parent government and judicial authority lately established here; and to such a height is it grown that the ex-counsellors propose

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to "up-sail" and away to settle in Chili, South America. I think too highly of New Zealand and our parental home to go thither.

Pray remember me to your kind father and all enquiring friends. Tell Mr. Fenn, with my respects, his cast-steel axes have turned out well. I wish I had another supply of them.

Adieu, my Dear Sir, and
Believe me,
Yours truly,
R. BARTON.
To Mr. Malcott (Jun.), Newgate Street.

PORT NICHOLSON,
New Zealand,

22nd November, 1841.

My Dear Sir,
I addressed a few lines to you soon after arrival, and I believe about twice since mentioning our progress in this, our first colony. Other settlements are now starting around us, and little doubt remains of New Zealand being quickly peopled by the Anglo-Saxon race. Notwithstanding the vast labour in clearing the dark forest valleys for our future cornfields, and the hanging hills for our orchards and vineyards, climbing the steeps with our newly-imported flocks, and penetrating the interior over swamps and rapid rivers, the climate is so delightful, and our hopes from the fertility of the soil so great, we are apt to forget, happily, the many privations incurred, for, believe me, the first settlers in the bush have had a few.

There has been much disappointment and consequent grumbling from not obtaining the country sections of land, arising from the dilatory state of the survey, and at this time there are no more than three hundred, out of the first eleven hundred surveyed. Many persons lounge about the town, waiting the survey; others turn to mercantile pursuits, go into some retired vale, clear and cultivate the beautiful spots. On arrival here, I selected a small peninsula formed by the river of the valley, at the head of the bay here, made a garden, from whence I have obtained all our culinary vegetables in great profusion.

On the adjacent hills I have two shepherds in charge of a prosperous flock of merino sheep, imported from Van Dieman's Land eighteen months ago, and a few miles up the valley I have obtained a hundred acre section of the most fertile land, part of which I have let in a clearing lease for a few years. My walking, for it's impossible to ride from one concern to the other, is excessively fatiguing at times, and what would have been deemed impossible two years ago.

The town of Wellington is situated on the S.W. angle of the harbour. On going through it yesterday, I observed more than twenty square-rigged ships lying at anchor, some homeward bound with whale oil and bone, others recently arrived with emigrants and stores, an American from Boston with household funiture, etc. Land on the beach for store-houses is, in consequence of the increasing trade, become extravagantly high; annual rent 25/- per foot frontage.

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The accounts from the exploring of the Nelson settlement (middle island), being so good, and confirming an opinion I had formed on seeing that part some time ago, induced me to purchase a 200 acre section yesterday for £300. A new colony is a strange place, and much wild speculation is going on amongst us, but as this district of Nelson is in the neighbourhood of an extensive and almost unknown coalfield, as well as much pasturage, I have thought of crossing Cooks Straits to it and settling (distance one hundred and fifty miles).
(Remainder missing.)

THE END.