New Plymouth Jan. 1, 1857. My dear Sir, I am still unable to report definitely upon the native peace question which is unnecessarily prolonged by these curious people greatly to their disadvantage and to the papers of this Province. Meihana Kukupara, of the Kaipakopako, a great supporter of Katatore, came into Town this morning and was invited to the Kawau, where he continues. Several unimportant young men from the Kaipakopako had previously been in Town and were passed almost unnoticed by the Town natives, but the name of Meihana, a Kaumatua caused a sensation. How Kiri-kumara will act in this matter is not yet known, as the "stranger" did not meet a single native on the road. I have no reason to alter any previously expressed opinion that peace is gradually being made by our natives with the utmost caution but whether they will arrange the land question is quite out of my power to say. Now that Henere Puni is at Wellington, do you think it would be advisable to write to his Father upon the subject of the disputed land at the Waiwakaiho? This little place is in a political ferment and the approaching election for a Superintendent bids fair to be a warm one. C.B. gave out that he would not stand, if the were of opinion that Cutfield was a better man for the appointment and further, asked my brother and others to to send any things they wished to dispose of to his house as he (C.B.) . This dodge took the required effect amongst his friends who are using every exertion to get him returned and C.B. politely bows with the ever ready remark that he did not intend to come forward but finding that his friends and of the electors wish him to stand again, he feels bound to comply with their wishes. Faithfully yours, H. Halse. To:- McLean Esq. the stolen lead has now been recovered and restored to the owners. I had almost given it up, fortunately however the takotoranga tumbled out of a natives mouth while under the effects of liquor and advantage was very properly taken of the circumstance. It was concealed in a tree inland of the Waiwakaiho. H.H.