New Plymouth Nov. 10, 1856 My dear Sir, The peace question engages general attention amongst the natives and I trust soon to be enabled to report its establishment on a satisfactory foundation. Waka, of the Kawau, has taken up the cause for Hone Ropiha and possessing I believe the weight of Poharama's influence, boldly gives notice of his intention to visit the Kaipakopako shortly, when it is expected he will be supported by all the natives from Moturoa to the Hua, the majority of whom would gladly make peace at any price so heartily tired are they of the whole affair. The tino putake of their troubles is not however forgotten and a great effort as I understand to be made for a division of the land with the view of preventing a recurrence of troubles entailing so much poverty and misery upon them. The land upon which stands the pa of Arama Karaka is I believe to be conceded at last to A.Karaka apparently as an atonement for those who are buried at Tarurutangi. W.Kingi and his people will proceed to the Kaipakopako today, where it is supposed the peace question will be discussed and seeing that without the aid of Ngatiruanui, the opposite party can harass them unceasingly, it is likely that some decision will be arrived at advantageous to ourselves as well as the natives. I am ready for riding out in that direction but have not decided about attending the meeting. Pumipi died last week - he might have been living at this moment had he taken advantage of the seasonable advice of Mr.Turton after poor Rawiri had fallen, but he preferred joining Katatore and holding fast to the land which serves him and many other associates now as a resting place. I believe that when this feud is once settled, it will be finally. I was much pleased with a letter sent to Hone Ropiha and expect good results from it. Henere Puni needs a like admonition with stronger ingredients to bring him to his senses. I attended the select committee on Monday last as commanded. The Kawau pa was one of the subjects for inquiry and designed to cast censure upon you - the investigation however proved that the had no foundation, that there was no mystery in a single case. I never witnessed such a signal failure to establish charges, deregatory to the movers and a disgrace to the Province. Hoping you are well, Believe me, Faithfully yours, H. Halse To:- McLean Esq.