Ngaruawahia October 16th 1872 My dear Sir The news of the downfall of your government has had a great effect on the native mind, more especially upon that of the hauhau, who appear to look upon it as a natural sequence that your downfall is a forerunner of war, and will hail your accession to office with delight. Had Mr. S - remained in power I believe war would have been raging before the year was out. There are one or two features amongst the hauhaus, that I have noticed since my visit to Maungatautari which strengthen this belief - They are devoting a good deal of their time in manufacturing Cartridges - and I have also received vague cautions from Tana and others - Tana told me yesterday to ask you not to allow the Road from Hauraki to Wairakeke to be made, as he was sure if that work was commenced just now trouble would arise, as their party were rather agitated at present. He said he meant to keep his promise to you, and would do all he could to keep matters quiet, but you must help him. Tana has now gone to see Ngatihinerangi at Irihanga with respect to dispute. I hope you got my letter about the Maungatautari affair (dated Spt. 6th); I do not think that that question would take long settling if you had an interview with Te Ngakau. They will not I think interfere with that Run for awhile yet, say about January - If possible dont permit the road from Hauraki to Waiharakeke to be constructed until you see some of Hauhau people. Tana says speaking confidentially to me that directly this road is commenced there will be aggressive action taken by King party, his words were Kei whakahawe koe - The friendly Ngatihaua also mean mischief about the Pae tu land, there was not a word of bounce in all their talk - but quiet determined speaking which means mischief. You will see all the facts in my report which I have forwarded through Mair. Hauhaus also say that the road troubles keep them from coming to any definite understanding with the Government. I am, My dear Yours obediently R. S. Burt Hon.D. McLean C.M.G. Wellington