Napier November 13th. 1872. My dear McLean, Last night about mid-night I received telegrams from Hall, which I sent you early this morning. Now there is a telegram from Rogan and Smith which is important, as they throw the whole responsibility upon Government, as say they will not do as you propose, viz:- talk with the Chiefs out of the Court. So far as I can judge, the New Zealand Court Judges are bound to force the cases on. If not, they are in the position of having submitted to threats, and having had their proceedings stopped, which of course would bring the Court into contempt. On the other hand, so long as they get through the cases, no matter how, the Government is responsible, and has to give effect to their decision, as the case is proceeding now. Ngatiraukawa are carrying through their claims; the opponents declining to appear in Court, and giving notice they will not acknowledge the decision of the Court. Altogether it is a precious mess, and it appears to me no good can result for the Court continuing. I told you yesterday of some of Karaitiana's proceedings. To-day I hear he is getting up the proceedings in the Waikato purchase case. It seems you bought (Provincially) Harauria's share from Maney, and on that he is going to try to fix his statement that you and I got the Natives' land by drink when the weather was very hot. The Rangatira comes here Saturday from Wellington, and returns to Wellington on Monday. Yours always, (Signed) J.D. Ormond.