Private. Taranaki, September 27, 1849. My dear Sir, I was anxiously looking forward to the arrival of the Brig and the last Mail in the hope that I might receive a few lines from you respecting my future proceedings as I did not like returning to the South till I heard from Auckland especially as there is a great deal to do in this district that requires being attended to which if overlooked or posponed might as far as the natives are concerned create great trouble and confusion hereafter. The principal object of coming round here was in consequence of the excitement created among the Ngatiawas by the apprehension of Kire Karoro at Wellington and it was most fortunate the Lieut. Governor thought of sending me here as the case produced more bad feeling than I at first perceived or anticipated however all that will die off as intelligence of the natives acquittal has arrived by the last Wellington Mail. While the case was pending several letters were received by the Ngatiawa of this place from their friends at the South stating that they intended to have utu or satisfaction if the murderer was hung as they objected to the interference by our laws with a matter justifiable by their customs and of such an old date. The people here who were previously quiet have taken advantage of this occurrence to renew their opposition to the sale of land and are creating under William King's direction a flag staff on the mouth of the Waiwakaio river indicative of their intentions to prevent the Europeans from buying land north of that river, this however would not deter me from going on with such preliminary negociations at the Waitara as might facilitate the acquisition of that desirable district but as any opening negociations there might interfere with a speedy return to the South I do not know how far I should proceed in the matter without having some hint as to Sir George's wishes on the subject. In connection with the Land claims in this district I find a visit to Nelson and other Bays in Cookes Straits would be desirable in order to arrange with the absentee claimants whose constant return to the district to lay claim to their land is a serious source of trouble and confusion. On the 11th of next month I shall pay the Ngamotu Natives the last instalment of one hundred and twenty pounds for the Grey Block of 9970 cres which will complete the payments for all the lands acquired under His Excellencys instructions of 1847 - it would not of course be prudent for me to leave till this payment is made, as it is essential that the Agent purchasing the land should be present to adjust the distribution of the several payments. Mr.Leech and wife have got here in safety they are much pleased with the place and no doubt Leechs long experience in office will render him efficient in discharging the duties of Mr.Websters department there is hardly any service under the Government that requires such constant attention as the Post office as every one is interested in the punctual and safe transmission of their letters I do trust on account of Mr.Websters wife and family that his removal to Auckland will benefit him - he seems well intentioned although he has unfortunately been rather neglectful the combination of offices appear to have puzzled him especially the Harbour Masters duties which require some nautical skill. I had some conversation with Capts.King and Mr. Leech about our boat establishment which is the key to our settlemt. and requires being placed under efficient managemt. if we had an augmentation of five seafaring men to the police who wod be available for the boats it might suit as they wo'd be always ready and under such discipline as wo'd assure their constant employmt. in some useful manner besides the sobriety of such a class of men would be fully secured by the summary punishment that can be inflicted by their being under similar agreements as the Armed Police. Our settlement looks beautiful since the late rains the grass and wheat crops are springing up with vigour and we have every prospect of a plentiful harvest. Our settlers are in great expectation of seeing Sir George and Lady Grey before long and it is to be hoped that His Excellency will favour us with a few weeks stay when he does come as no people in the Island are more glad to see him and Lady Greythan those of Taranaki. I remain, My dear Sir, Yours very truly, (Sd.) Donald McLean.