Text of the invitation sent to Tamati Waka Nene to attend the meeting of chiefs at Waitangi, 5th February, 1840.
(Original in the Auckland Museum).
TRANSLATION
(By H. M. STOWELL).
Of the 3Oth day of January, 1840.
O my dear friend.
Herewith something special from me to you. A Man-o-war vessel has called here particularly, with a certain Chief on board. He is sent by the Queen of England, as a Governor for us.
Now, he desires that as many representative New Zealand chiefs as possible be gathered together by Wednesday of next week to see him.
I now therefore say unto you, O friend, make your arrangements to come along here to Waitangi, to my home here, to this gathering and meeting. For you yourself are a typical representative chief and will be welcomed to the meeting as such.
That is all, mine ends here, From your sincere friend, From Te PUHIPI (Mr. Busby) To Tamati Waka Nene.