Wellington 29 Jany. 75. Dear Sir Donald, As you wished me to write, I do so, but what to write about is the question. With one single exception every thing is going on quietly here, and smiling countenances are to be seen in all directions. The exception is the stupid, and as far as I can learn, unjustifiable opposition on the part of Te Peeti, and his following to the erection of telegraph poles on the line of road between Palmerston and Foxton. Peeti, who should know better, asks to be paid so much a year for each pole - this is so absurd that I am at a loss to know what has come over him. Wi Parata pronounces him to be the essence of stubborness, and hopes the law will be put in motion against him. Wi Tako, who has been to Waikanae, is back. He was very indignant on hearing of Te Peeti's conduct, and urged legal proceedings as in the case of Kawana Huna. To accede to Peeti's demand for payment would lead to endless applications from all parts of the island and could not be entertained for a moment. There is another subject of much greater importance now going on in Napier, as you will see from the attached slip cut out from the N. Z. Times of 26th. inst. Napier, Monday. Writs of ejectment have been served on the owners of the Heretaunga block, with a view to try the question of title to the property in the Supreme Court next June. Mr. Sheehan is for the natives. Should Mr. Sheehan carry his point for the Natives and some far seeing men think it not unlikely - what will become of our title generally to land acquired in this country? One point may serve us and that point is the Native custom in insisting upon children being parties to a sale of land. I have witnessed this custom, and so have other officers but I doubt whether the custom is much known out of your Dept. Probably you are prepared for the action now being taken by Mr. Sheehan who I doubt not is supported by other Pakehas who seem to delight in bringing about confusion and trouble. The day after my return I called on Miss McLean and delivered your message. Faithfully yours, H. Halse.