Auckland, Jan. 21st. 1858. My dear Sir, I returned from my trip to Mangakahia on the 16th. inst. Very few natives were to be seen, as there was a general gathering of all the Northern chiefs to meet His Excellency at Kororareka, and assist in the erection of the flagstaff. The Tirarau did not go --- or rather he told me he should not --- he was on his way to Auckland to see His Excy. and yourself relative to the sale and survey of certain lands in his district. He expressed much regret that Mr. Rogan had been detained in Town, as the present season of the year was most favourable to surveying operations. I understand too that Mr. W. White has again been interfering amongst the natives. Some of the Ngapuhi natives are exceedingly desirous that the Great North road should be carried out. They wish the terminus to be at the head of the Kawakawa, Where a large meeting has lately been held for the purpose of making a gratuitous offer to the Govt. of a small but valuable block of land at that place, as some inducement for the Govt. to accede to their wishes. This offer is quite independent of the Kawakawa block which you have heard of and they would be willing to alienate a considerable tract of fine country in that neighbourhood. I may cite as my authority Honi Kingi Tahua, one of the principal parties concerned. I am informed that during my absence Mr. Hays protracted stay in Town had excited the attention of the Ministry and a hint having been conveyed to him of the probable consequences of such a neglect of orders if not immediately complied with, he went down as far as Orakei in his boat and them returned overland to Town, where he was seen some days after. Of this the Ministry are also aware. I trust that in making these communications to you privately, I am not in any way committing myself. The "Iris" has just arrived with His Excey. and suite. Nothing has yet transpired relative to the meetings with the Natives. As Hone Ropiha accompanied them we shall doubtless hear every particular. You will ere this have heard of the decease of His Honor the Chief Justice. The new Judge is now on his way from England in the "Emeu" with Dr. Sinclair and Mr. Outhwaite. Everything progresses steadily in the office; Mr. Friend however has been very little with us. He is said to have accompanied Mr. Hay. I remain, my dear Sir, Most respectfully yours, William B. Baker,