Napier June 11th. 1869. My dear McLean, I sent you a telegram about Russell and Haultain, and have just sent your reply to Locke. The Taupo news is bad enough, and shows the enemy are by no means hemmed in, as Whitmore and Co. boast. Where will the next attack be? Will the enemy enter this Province in force? or confine their efforts to the inland encampments? I wrote you last time my views on your accepting office, and I trust I shall hear soon that you have sole charge of Native and Defence Offices. I much fear that the necessary money for carrying on the war will be a serious difficulty to any Ministry, but it must be overcome. We have absolute ruin staring us in the face, if war comes closer, and the enemy is not subdued or driven back. You will have a great opportunity of doing valuable and lasting service to the Country if you accept the Native Department; and such a one as only occurs once in a man's lifetime. You must have great power if you are to do good; and you will have no bed of roses to lie on, but you will win the lasting esteem of all classes, if you should be able, under Providence, to stem the tide of rebellion; and I believe you have sufficient influence with our native allies alone, to do a great deal towards this end. There is now a chance for you to stand on a pinnacle of fame, for which a whole life training has eminently fitted you; and may you overcome all obstacles. I have written to Ormond to send the Attorney General's opinion up to settle the Southern lawsuits; as you know the obstinancy of Wilson when he fancies he has a case. I have sent a copy of your note also. Maney's (?) and Karararia's case will be settled forthwith; and Mr. Locke will get the necessary signatures. I gave him the papers yesterday. He has now gone to Pah Kowai to get the 40 scouts for the Government. The Carlyons are both behaving badly in Town just now. Sunday, drunk upstairs at the Club, and other complaints against them. War between them and Russell and Lambert, and their conduct only injures our side. I am afraid the Club will not long survive. The next news I hear from you, I hope, will be your acceptance of Office; and you will always have my prayers for success to attend you, and wisdom to guide your footsteps. Yours always (Signed) J. Rhodes.