New Plymouth. September 29th. 1851. Dear Sir, I posted a letter to you this morning with the usual report and then went to a meeting of Puketapu natives at the Police Office. The business had reference to Putatutonga which they were willing to yield on receipt of balance on second payment for Mangati and accordingly called upon Captain King for it, who in reply told them that as soon as an authority was received from you, he would do so. The object of the meeting was clearly to get an outstanding question arranged before entering on a new one which was carefully avoided - viz. the proposed sale mentioned in my letter posted this morning. Had you been here this block which has caused so much trouble and expense might have been taken possession of tomorrow. The Huia behaved well he appears however to be completely under the thumb of Parata Tamaiti and I have observed the same influence exercised over Iharaira. Cap. King gave the natives 10/- worth of bread after which they dispersed. I saw Henere te Ware this morning he told me the reason he interfered with the Reserve on Mr. Richardson's estate was, in consequence of disputes, between Te Rangi and Matene about it - the former was altogether wrong in thinking of exchanging it without first getting the consent of all natives interested. I am cleared out of news for the present and must now look to you by next arrival from the South. The wounded horse is mending and may be returned to the owner at the end of the week. With best respects from my wife and self to Mrs. McLean. I remain, Dear Sir, Faithfully yours, H. Halse.