Major Lambert's Case relative to Mr. Burton supplying Mr. McLean with esetain information. Napier 4th. January 1869 Sir, I have the honour to forward the copy of a letter dated 26th. ult. from Ltd. Col. Lambert, Commanding at the Wairoa, together with enclosures. After the return of the Native Expedition from Poverty Bay, a good deal of ill feeling was gaining ground, and slights put upon some of the tribes who had taken a prominent part in the engagements with the enemy. Considering how cheerfully the natives volunteered their services, I felt most anxious, and took every pains to check this feeling; and desired to have a fair and impartial statement prepared for the Government, of what was really done by the several tribes engaged. As you are aware, there was no European force at the front, except a few under Sub-Inspector Gascoigne. Some of the Chiefs referred me to Mr. Burton for information, as to what had taken place. I asked Major Green to write a few lines to Mr. Burton, a private Gentleman, who was at the time, engaged with his own pursuits, and not under any obligation to report to me officially through the Officer commanding the District. The above being the circumstances under which Mr. Burton was aritten to, I would particularly request your attention to the tone of Lt. Col. Lambert's letter of the 26th. ult. wherein he has presumed to use language which I hope you will see the necessity of noticing in such a manner as to prevent a repetition of conduct so very unbecoming on the part of an Officer in the Colonial Service. I have the honour to be Sir, Your most obedient servant (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- The Honourable Colonel Haultain Wellington.