New Plymouth 23rd. November 1858. My dear Sir, In enclosing an article for the Messenger I hope you will make every allowance for the first attempt. I had written at some length on the tikanga pakeke which has prevailed in this place so many years, but fearing I might stir up some of the Maori King advocates at the north, I decided not to offend any one but myself which you may defend I did by withholding actual facts. As to the natives here, so few read the Messenger that there is little hope of reaching them through its columns. All continues quiet here. Some warm disenssions have taken place at Waitara about land during the last fortnight, and more will be continually occurring until they put their heads together and resolve on selling it. The King movement makes little progress amongst the Taranaki and Ngatiruanui natives, in as far as I have been enabled to learn. Mr. Reimene tells me that Tamati Oraukawa has consented and been laughed at for his folly. The Waikatos are expected at Warea when the season is father advanced. For my part I would rather they remained away and leave the natives here alone, unless their object is intended for good, which I have not yet been able to discover. The postmen latterly all supporters of the Maori King, circulate all kinds of nonsense here, and invariably persist in saying that the Governor and Potatau pull together in this movement. This is a point it would be well to satisfy our natives upon, at least in my opinion. W. Kingi, of Waitara, still says he will have nothing do so with the business and if firm will deter waverers. Rangi Kapuao has been taken back to Oakura by his friends and from last accounts the next move will be to his pare. Tamati te Ito passed through the Town yesterday with a few followers (all mounted) to visit the old man, and if it were practicable to save him. I am now going to Waitara to endeavour to engage the services of 4 natives to accompany Mr. C. Brown on his exploring expedition, as he wishes to make a start from that river on the 1st. of next month. As matters stand between W. King and Ihaia there is little hope of my succeeding and I have told Mr. Brown so privately who said he was of the same opinion. Faithfully yours, H. Halse.