Wellington, 14 Octr., 1868 My dearRichmond, The peace and security of Hawkes Bay and the East Coast is of such very grave importance that I shall endeavour to the best of my ability to act upon your Memo of yesterdays date. With reference to your private letter I consider that the position of the Colony is such as to require that unity of action should exist among those who are in any way responsible for the public safety. I am prepared to act accordingly and shall therefore refrain from entering upon a discussion of party or other considerations which have been raised in your letter. I remain, Yours faithfully, D.McL. 14 Octr. 68