Napier 12th March, 1869 Sir, The general threatening aspect of affairs in the North Island induces me to discharge what I conceive to be my duty to the Colony by representing to His Excellency's Ministers what in my opinion is the position of the East Coast, the part of the Country with which I am most connected and to indicate the action which I conceive advisable to meet present difficulties. The various settlements on the East Coast are threatened with destruction, murders are committed at different points and life and property deemed quite insecure. At the Wairoa, Te Waru with about sixty of his own followers besides adherents from the Uriwera and other tribes is ready to attack any out settlers or friendly natives who may come within his reach, while the friendly Natives bewildered by different and conflicting instructions are at a loss to know while willing to act what steps to take for the public safety and although constantly appealed to on the subject I do not feel that the Government place me in a position to enable me to act with sufficient authority in this matter. The condition of Poverty Bay with deserters and spies from Te Kooti's ranks who are settling among the resident Natives is far from being satisfactory while Opotiki is exposed to attack by Te Kooti, who if allowed to retain his present threatening attitude, will soon obtain considerable assistance from various tribes, any success on his part will also ensure Waikato support and thus create a fresh combination of difficulties which it will be exceedingly difficult to meet. I would therefore submit for the consideration of Government that the East Coast tribes should be induced to act at once against Te Kooti and Te Waru, so as to prevent their gaining further accessions of strength, and this appears more urgently necessary before Waikato throws in its aid; should this course be effectually carried out it would free the Government from anxiety for this side of the Island while if delayed a large force would be eventually required to meet the exigency, and disaster would almost certainly ensue before it could be met. Ropata who is now here would take the field with Ngatiporou and if aided by a small European force, the growing difficulties at Opotiki and the East Coast might be checked before terminating in further calamities. If the course which I have suggested should meet with the approval of Ministers I shall be willing to afford any assistance I can in furtherance thereof. I have the honor to be, Sir, Your most obedt.Servt., (Sigd.) Donald McLean