Hokianga, May 27th, 1861. Donald McLean, Esqr. Auckland. My Dear Sir, I have this moment received your letter of date 21st instant and shall at once answer, the part of it, which is contained in the latter end of the second paragraph (you diplomatists are queer chaps). I am happy to tell you that the whole able bodied population of Hokianga and also the whole of the Rarawa along the north west coast as far as Mongonui are ready to turn out when called upon by the Governor to do so - I could turn out every mothers son of the Hokianga scoundrels myselr in eight hours - but would not like the responsibility without orders - The Natives here fully understand that a regular war with Waikato would be no joke but are nevertheless prepared for it. Walker was in the district some days ago - and his doings gave rise to all sorts of reports and surmises - It struck me that he was trying to ascertain the minds of natives here (feeling their pulse) I think I mentioned once to yourself and Mr.Richmond also that several of the principal Chiefs here and generally in the North have a feeling of jealousy towards old for the credit and profit which he has earned from us - this you know is Maori human nature - but it must be noted as the effect would be that were a of the Northern Natives entrusted to him the thing would probably fail in part indeed - should a grand turn out be required all the head or leading chiefs should be written to by the Governor - in such terms as know best to dictate - and such as would relieve their fears of being looked on as mere followers of Walker - You understand how strong this feeling is amongst the Natives sometimes - however to speak to the upshot of the question there is no doubt on my mind whatever that without any delay the natives can be raised when wanted and I guarantee those under my immediate mesmerism. Before we were so strong as we are now, since late refinforcements and at a time when there was a chance Auckland might be attacked at disadvantage I told his Excellency that I would if there was need take charge of a movement such as I allude to I have since that time been harrassed and almost fagged to death by private anxieties and cares, and had I got your letter one day sooner could not have said what I do now which is that if my services should be worth acceptance in any matter such as the above I am willing to put them at His Excellencies disposal - provided always that his Excellency will not give me to do than would satisfy about ten ordinary ''old settlers''. Should the natives from Hokianga and the North West coast be wanted my plan would be to collect them in Hokianga - and march them over to Te Ti at north of Waitangi near Bay of Islands - to meet vessels to embark them - I would first however send round from here a schooner load of Provisions to meet them at for should foul winds delay vessels from Auckland her Majesties irregular troops would be starved out and run home and never stir again for any consideration. The Camp at te Ti would have the great advantage of being and you know we could hear prayers of a Sunday and that sort of thing - Adam Clarke has gone down to have a Korero with you in consequence of Walkers being here - he is all right but a knowing chap who likes to know the why and wherefore before he takes action as the lawyers say - with him is my good friend and tohunga Pahahurihia who is most loyal to and to the Queen just now - he believes that I am of the two the I should like you to meet us together some evening - I think your letter of sufficient consequence to send this answer at once express to the Bay - You need not fear that I shall too much or before the proper time - I have divined that which your letter tells me long ago but said naught - Pray assure his Excellency of my most sincere respect and devotion and believe me Most sincerely yours, F.E.Maning.