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Boundary

Author: Paul W. Feenstra is a historical fiction novelist. Meticulously researched and detailed, his character driven novels create a dramatic window into our chronicled and complex past. Born in Wellington, New Zealand, in 1959, to Dutch immigrants, Paul still commutes to Los Angeles, California, where he worked as a multiple ‘Emmy’ nominated entertainment industry professional. Will justice prevail over greed and ruthless ambition? July 1839, without the permission of the English Government, the New Zealand Company ship, Tory, quietly departed England, anxious to reach New Zealand with the utmost speed. Expedition leader, Colonel William Wakefield’s objective is clear – acquire millions of acres of valuable land from the natives at the lowest possible price. On board the Tory, Andrew and Eleanor Stewart, young Scottish emigrants indentured to the New Zealand Company, are excited at the prospect of beginning a new life in a perfect town called Britannia. It’s the Utopia the company promised. Boundary highlights adversity as settlers struggle to survive the hardships of a new colony. Where mounting claims of illegally obtained lands and deception force local Maori chiefs to resist. How much more can they endure before they finally take action and revolt? Caught between the loyalty to their employer, and helping Maori, Andrew and Eleanor encounter schemers and murderers as they challenge the powerful New Zealand Company and the men who govern. Meticulously researched, Boundary is a story of greed and injustice, and draws attention to an often-misunderstood dark passage in New Zealand’s early colonial history.

Paul W. Feenstra · History
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108 Chs

Chapter 31

Wakefield Residence and New Zealand Company Office, Thorndon Flats

"Samuel Revans believes it's a good idea, sir," said Barrett to Colonel Wakefield as they both walked past Andrew towards the colonel's office.

"Yes, and that is what Edward has been telling me. It could however have far reaching implications if we fail," protested Wakefield. "But then again, if we succeed, it means the Crown no longer stands in the way of private enterprise, does it?"

As the two men entered Wakefield's office leaving the door partly ajar, Andrew turned his head to listen.

"I could make the hotel available for a public forum, let the settlers and colonists speak, you'll see the support will be there," encouraged Barrett.

Colonel Wakefield was silent as he mulled over the idea. Revans had already published a first edition of the Company's newspaper the New Zealand Gazette in England. He could print another edition here locally and that could be used to spread the word and solicit further support.