Wanganui 19th Jany. 1859 My dear McLean, I am not certain whether you secure any intelligence from Topini's party at the head of the river or not, in case you do not, I secured information yesterday that 5 of the Ngatitus were killed lately by Topini's people who had completely surrounded the Pah of the former. About a fortnight ago I reported officially the commencement of these hostilities. It now hard to say how it will end. The war now appears to be one of religion, viz. Protestants or Romanists, it is a great pity that hot headed priest Pompalier is not removed as he appears to be at the bottom of the whole affair. I now wish to call your attention to the fact that the Manawatu District is becoming occupied very fast. Messrs. Alexander and Patterson have sent about 700 head of cattle there in charge of natives, and I have been informed that Trafford has leased a run from the natives of several thousand acres for £50 a year. These proceedings will no doubt interfere with the purchase of the District, what is Searanck about? I have just heard from Strang he is once more come at his desk in Wellington and appears to have enjoyed his trip to Auckland much. Mrs. Durie is I am sorry to say not very well having lately heard of the death of her Brother in Dundee, she is anxious to go home once more on a visit but dear me what is to become of all the . Dr. Robertson and family have left us for Melbourne via Wellington. Have you ever got the £30 advanced by you for Mrs. R. passage to Auckland? if not I fear you may whistle for it. Write me soon, and Believe me yrs. faithfully, D. S. Durie