C.S. Office Dec. 16th. 1861 My dear Sir, I drop a line to say that Sir George Grey left Waiuku shortly before 9 a.m. on Thursday last for Kohanga, via the Awaroa; but owing to some accident with the large canoe sent by Waata Kukutai, to the mouth of that creek, for the Governor, he did not arrive there until close upon 5 p.m. that day. Heavy rain on Friday and Saturday prevented all out-door work, and nothing was done during that time beyond consuming loaves and fishes, at which work I need hardly tell you, the natives of New Zealand defy competition. The ''Korero'' was to commence this day; and I earnestly hope the result may be satisfactory; but I fear, from all I can gather, that it will be a case of ''Whakari Rau'', if not an absolute rejection of the new system. Hoping to have the pleasure of seeing you before you leave, - I remain faithfully yours (Signed) H. Halse. To:- Donald McLean Esq.