New Plymouth May 26, 1852 Dear Sir, Mr.Cooper arrived here yesty. from Wellington-Many thanks for your letters dated 24,28 and 29th April- By Monday's mail the usual report with native letters was forwarded to you - and in a private letter your wish in reference to "Assessors" was partly anticipated, I may now observe, though too late, that Toheroa is objected to, on the ground of having joined the opposition party - and Paora Kukutai in living at a distance and having no influence at Hauranga where his services are likely to be most required - the other appointments seem to give satisfaction - Your letter to Tamati Waka has been copied and forwarded, it was just the thing and I hope it will have good effect where most wanted - The Wairoa business is not arranged as I desired - The natives there could not agree in the division of the six acres Morgan promised to plough and harrow for them, and, being instiggted by the opposition party to the Tatara road, anxious to survey Te Ngahuru, they decided upon returning to the Wairoa - Seeing the state of things Morgan consented to let them use it this season for wheat, on a distinct promise from Tiaki and others to give it up unconditionally after the crop is gathered - The necessity of repairing the fence was impressed upon them but whether they will attend to the caution, or respect this their second promise remains to be seen - I see from the late Maori Messenger that land has been purchased at Whaingaroa by Government can you tell me whether it is likely a settlement will be formed there - Very faithfully yours H. Halse