August 14, 1843: Regarding the Appointment of Elia as Head Policeman
Below is an official letter authored by Kekūanāoʻa regarding his appointment of Elia Kuhia as “Luna kaiko” for “Honolulu uka.” Elia, along with his deputy police officers, were authorized to arrest those who violated laws. As such, all law breakers–aliʻi, kānaka, or foreigner–were subject to arrest by Elia and his subordinates. A transcription of this letter is below.
Papu Honolulu Augate 14 1843
E ike oukou e na mea a pau ke hoolilo aku nei au ia Elia Kuhia i Luna kaiko ma Honolulu uka eia ka nui o na kaiko malalo iho ona o na [Ka??ai] no a pau.
Eia kana mau hana e hana ai na hana hewa a pau i papaia e ke kanawai e hiki no ia Elia a me na kaiko a pau ma lalo iho ona ke hana.
Ina hana hewa kela alii keia alii kela kanaka keia kanaka kela haole keia haole e hiki no ia elia a me na kaiko malalo ona ke hana aku.
M. Kekuanaoa