Raglan April 6th 1875 My dear Sir, I omitted in my last letter to tell you that Tawhiao in conversation with me referred to his little daughter taking so readily to Europeans. He says he could not help noticing how quietly she went to you at Waitomo, and that she would not do that to natives - she is afraid of them. He looks upon her liking for the Pakeha to be a sign to him to go to them also - so he tells me - he believes that if she dies he will not survive her long. Tu Tawhiao wanted to come to Raglan - Tawhiao said wait, we will go together. I believe Tawhiao's mind is made up as far as he is concerned, and as soon as you have met the old chiefs, he will I think consider himself at liberty to go where he likes. He says he was very much overcome when he saw you at Waitomo, your presence brought up many old chiefs to his memory, he asked himself how it was that they all had disappeared, and you remained? was it because they had acted wrongly? He kept very sober all the time I was at Aotea; I hear however that he was rather tipsy on Friday evening at Te Makaka. You will I think find he will not visit Kuiti, if he does it will not be to make a stay there, but as he said only for a day or two, unless there is a chance of your being present. I understand from Hone te One that Tawhiao has given a tacit consent to his vessel for Kawhia. The subject has not been openly discussed, and agreed to. The feeling I fancy is that your vessel should be the first European vessel to open that Harbour - at least so say several natives, who consider themselves well posted up in native matters. The numbers of natives reported present at Kuiti in papers are too large altogether. Tawhiao describes Wellington natives all told as seventeen. With reference to my telegram asking for a months leave of absence, forwarded through Dr. Harcourt, I would say, I should like very much to take my children to see their Grandfather, and my wife her Father, as from all accounts he is not destined to be spared to us much longer, but I should be sorry if by my absence I should upset any of your arrangements. If such be the case, sir, I shall be satisfied to take it at some more convenient time to yourself. I will endeavour to keep you posted up in movements of King, also sayings, and doings. Hoping you are well I remain My dear Sir Yours faithfully R.J. BUSH Sir D. McLean K.C.M.G.