Once Commissioner Spain had established Richard Barrett's official role within the Company, he quickly focused on what he believed was the real and contentious issue.

"Mr. Barrett, please tell this court exactly the terms in which you explained the deed of purchase to the gathered chiefs - in Māori!" requested Spain, holding up a copy of the original Port Nicholson deed of sale. With a flourish, he waved the handful of documents in the air for all to see, then handed a copy to ...