Otakou September 17th. 1860. D. McLean, Esq., Dear Sir, There being a difficulty in the way of the natives being lawfully married in this district situated as I am, I proposed to Mr. Strode that I should be made Registrar to the natives of Otakou, Waikouaiti, Moeraki, Taiere and Maranuku. Mr. Strode was pleased with the idea, and suggested that I should write to you on the subject. There are many in this district living together unmarried and the only plan open in my idea is that I should be in a position to marry, on my visits to the different settlements. On my visit to Moeraki last July, several couples who had been living together wished me to marry them which of course I could not do. To give one instance of the their necessity of their being lawfully united. There is a man here, living with a young woman having taken her to wife in the Maori way. The father of the girl died a few days ago and it is now proposed that the man should take. his wahine's mother to wife, whereas if they were married this could not be done. Not that I think the man will do so, but might do if I were not here to prevent it. Should my proposal be accepted it will confer a benefit on the natives and I think will prevent disputes with the Europeans. I remain dear Sir, Yours very faithfully, Charles Baker.