Napier August 11th. 1871. My dear Sir, I leave this evening, per Napier, for Gisborne, to hold the District Court there on the 18th. I very much fear I cannot get back until the return of the vessel from Auckland. I have commenced a lengthy letter to the Government, addressed to the Native Minister, respecting the order, or rule of practice made by the Registrar General of Land, in the matters of Crown Grants. The order or rule is in itself "Ultra vires" on the part of the Registrar General; but even were it otherwise, it would be had policy to allow it to continue in force, as it is peculiarly adapted to injure the property of Maoris in their lands, and to perpetuate their distrust as to the ulterior views and intentions of the Pakeha. I remain, my dear Sir, Yours very truly (Signed) Singleton Rochfort. To:- The Honourable Donald McLean Wellington.