Private. New Plymouth, March 7, 1861. My dear Sir, You will perceive by the correspondence forwarded herewith, that I have been snubbed for recommending an attack upon the Southern rebels encamped about Waireka - I had repeatedly recommended a move in that direction both to the General and Colonel Carey, neither of them ever before manifested the slightest disapprobation, but on the contrary encouraged me to hope that a move in that direction would be undertaken. I must ask you to lay the correspondence before the Governor, and let me know if I have exceeded my duty - for I have an impression that it was both yours and the Governors wish that I should recommend this punishment of the Southern murderers when an excellent opportunity like the one referred to offered.- I forgot to acknowledge in my last your remembrances to Watt - who poor fellow has had a most dangerous attack of Fever, in fact he was not expected to survive, however he is now a little better - He has been ill for upwards of 2 months. The assistance I have had from him is nothing since you left. I wish I had acted upon the Governors instructions at the commencement and secured clerical assistance. With kind remembrances to old friends, believe me My dear Sir, Yours Truly, R. Parris. Donald McLean, Esqre.