I have got a room for you when you come up. Woodlands May 30th 1863 My dear McLean I write a line by Locke who is on his way to Napier. Everything remains here in just the same state as when I last wrote. I am still very unwell and can't get about much, though I often see Natives and talk with them. I heard a the other day about a conversation between you and Renata, in wh. the latter is said to have defended the tomahawking of the soldiers, by saying that the head of some Maori (Ratima I think is the name) was actually in Napier in possession of some white man. If this is the case, or any such conversation take place between you I wish you wd. give me a short sketch of it that I may contradict the false and give the true version, as these stories do much mischief. There is also a yarn about Paora Torotoro being beaten by 2 soldiers in Napier wh. is much talked of here. I have just heard from Ormond and as far as he has explained what his advice to you is, I entirely agree in it. He tells me that he has asked you to come up and meet us inland to discuss the present state of affairs. I most earnestly hope and beg you will do so. Russell is in a state of utter , and his opinions, from the position he holds etc. will be sure to spread and do invalculable mischief. Lambert is going down, also trembling in his shoes. I had reassured him to some extent, but he went hence to Mr. Herbert and the ague came on again worse than ever. He actually talks of moving his family. I enclose a copy of the Porangahau answer to my letter. They are waiting to hear Karaitiana's news and won't speak till they do. Your's faithfully, G. S. Cooper