Baffled in Parliament, as already described, the colonizers changed their ground, decided to propitiate the powers, and become a joint-stock company.

Having done so, and subscribed a capital of L100,000, they tried to enlist the sympathies of Lord Normanby, who had just succeeded Lord Glenelg at the Colonial Office.

They found the new-made Secretary of State very affable indeed, and departed rejoicing.
But, like many new-made ministers, Lord Normanby had spoken without reckoning with his permanent officials.

A freezing official letter, following swiftly on the pleasant interview, dashed the hopes of the Company.

They were getting desperate.