Protectors Office, Auckland, Augt.22, 1844. Sir, In order to facilitate and simplify the duty you have to perform in obtaining the necessary definite information in order to the settlement of the Taranaki Land question. I have the honor to forward the enclosed forms, according to which you will have the goodness to condense the information you acquire. Many difficulties will doubtless arise to discourage you, but a patient and persevering effort will remove every obstacle however formidable at first sight it may appear. With reference to the price which those Natives who wish to sell may fix upon their lands, you must be prepared to hear all that they can urge in support of their claim, but at the same time to inform them that extravagant demands cannot be complied with but your own knowledge of the native character will suggest the propriety of making such matters a subject of private and mutual arrangement as the Natives cannot determine what is a fair and reasonable price for their Lands without such assistance. I would also strongly recommend you to keep up frequent communication with Mr. Whiteley who may be able to render you very valuable assistance. Should any correspondence of importance pass between that Gentleman and yourself you will forward certified copies of the same to this office. I have the honor to be, Sir, Your most obedient servant, for the Chf. Protector, Thomas Forsaith.