Te Awa hou, Manawatu, 1st Octr., 1851. My Dear Sir, Yours of the 22nd ult. I duly received. I am sorry that you were disappointed in not getting your things by the Cutter Fly. Before your letter by Paneta came to hand both the Fisherman and the Fly had passed this place and were down at the Mouth of the river waiting for a fair wind to get out. Had I known you wanted them immediately I certainly would have sent a native down with them. The "Phoebe" is now in the river, and I have this morning sent your things up to Mr. Cook's Paiaka, to have them put on board there lest she should pass this at an inconvenient time to hail her. I hope you will receive them all safe. I had no key to fit the padlock of your case, and I put it inside. Taratoa, Ihakara and a good many natives belonging to this place started a fortnight ago for Taupo. I hear there is some disturbance amongst the natives at Oturoa. Mokau sent for old Paora Taikapurua last Monday morning as there was to be meeting at Oturoa to settle some dispute about land there. Te Ahu of Ohau, has I understand, been selling or leasing land at Oturoa, to a man named Nicholson, and to Charlie Symonds, and this has roused the wrath of Mokau and other natives who are determined to hold the land. Have you ascertained whether the windows for the native church here are in progress? Perhaps you will let me know. Mrs. Duncan and I have much pleasure in congratulating you and Mrs. McLean on the late happy event that has so closely united you, and we heartily wish you much enjoyment and prosperity. I remain, My dear Sir, Yours very truly, James Duncan. D. McLean, Esqr., Wellington. P. S. If you have got my martingal and saddle straps at Wellington will you be so kind as send them by the first convenient opporty., as I occasy. require them. J.D.