Auckland, August 26th, 1870, My dear Mr. McLean, I observe by this days mail Notice sheet that the ''Phoebe'' has not yet left the Manukau - and wish to add a few words to those already sent - I received yesterday telegram from Puckey asking whether the Government could not help Moananui out of his difficulties arising out of the illegal transactions regarding Beach Claims - I have very strong feelings on the subject and have replied rather warmly to Puckey. I wish Puckey would not lend himself to the pressure the Pakeha speculators are trying to bring on the Government - I enclose for your information copies of those telegrams - they can be made official records of in Wellington. We have tried to help the natives out of their troubles by purchasing the fore-shore they decline. I do not see why the Government should be victimized as well as the natives. Another matter I forgot to mention - In a private note from Gilbert Mair I learn that Col. Gorton on his last visit to the Bay of Plenty prohibited the issue of rations (on payment) to the natives engaged in transport the consequence is the transport has broken through - Mair will be obliged to abandon Kaiteriria - his men cannot live without food - Oh.! this red tape - we shall be strangling ourselves yet - I purpose leaving this for the Bay of Plenty on 1st Sept, the ''Lord Ashley'' is likely to call in at Tauranga and to continue dong so. I should like to get some definite reply about Whakatane Reserve - As I should wish to settle that matter finally when I am there. Faithfully yours, Henry T. Clarke. P. S. I have sent the telegrams above referred to under cover officially. H.T.C.