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An Epitome of Official Documents Relative to Native Affairs and Land Purchases in the North Island of New Zealand

No. 6. — Extract of a Despatch, from Lord Glenelg to Major-General Sir Richard Bourke, dated Downing Street, 25th May, 1836

No. 6.
Extract of a Despatch, from Lord Glenelg to Major-General Sir Richard Bourke, dated Downing Street, 25th May, 1836.

Respecting the Maori Declaration of Independence.

I have received a letter from Mr. Busby enclosing a copy of a declaration made by the chiefs of the northern parts of New Zealand, setting forth the independence of their country and declaring the union of their respective tribes into one'State, under the designation of "The United Tribes of New Zealand." I perceive that the chiefs at the same time came to the resolution to send a copy of their declaration to His Majesty, to thank him for his acknowledgment of their flag, and to entreat that in return for the friendship and protection which they have shown and are prepared to show to such British subjects as have settled in their country or resorted to its shores for the purpose of trade, His Majesty willcontinue to be theparent of their infant State, and its protector from all attempts on its independence.

With reference to the desire which the chiefs have expressed on this occasion to maintain a good understanding with His Majesty's subjects, it will be proper that they should be assured, in His Majesty's name, that he will not fail to avail himself of every opportunity of showing his good-will, and of affording to those chiefs such support and protection, as may be consistent with a due regard to the just rights of others, and to the interests of His Majesty's subjects.

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