But the Duke of Wellington was not by any means alone in a reluctance to annex New Zealand.

In 1831 thirteen Maori chiefs, advised by missionaries, had petitioned for British protection, which had not been granted.

The truth is, not only that the Empire seemed large enough to others besides the Duke, but that the missionaries stood in the way.

As representing the most respectable and the only self-sacrificing element amongst those interested in the islands, they were listened to.

It would have been strange had it been otherwise.
Nevertheless, the growing trade and the increasing number of unauthorized white settlers made it necessary that something should be done.