Whanganui October 15th, 1870. Sir, With reference to Mr. Field's Mangawhero-Taupo Road, I have the honour to report that the Mangawhero and Whanganui natives are most anxious to know whether it is the intention of the Government to finish that road, as they are most desirous to obtain employment in the making of it. About 100 natives have sent to say they are desirous to be employed either as day-labourers or as contractors. I have further the honour to report that I have been informed by Te Oti Winiata, and other Taupo natives that there is another and much shorter track from the Murimotu Plain, to Whanganui, by the Pukohu track, the one Mr. Field is now cutting; that many years ago, a War Party left Taupo for the Pukohu, (Mr. J. McGregor's Farm near Mangawhero) that they found an early track through the bush, slept one night on the way, and next morning crossed the Mangawhero once, attacked and defeated the natives at Pukohu. This line, therefore, according to Te Oti's statement, must be much more direct than Mr. Field's. It Joins Mr. Field's at Mangawhero, and from thence to the town of Wanganui. The road is also ready-made. In conclusion I have the honour to request that I may be instructed as th whether you think it desirable that the country I have just mentioned should be explored for this purpose, of finding whether or not a line preferable to Mr. Field's can be found. I have the honour to be Sir, Your most obedient servant (Signed) James Booth. R.M. To:- The Hon. The Native Minister Wellington.