Auckland June 2nd,/57. Dear McLean, With this you will get an official which explains itself. The measure contemplated by the Governor is the calling of a General meeting of Waikato in the neighbourhood of Auckland, say Papakura, or Waiuku, at which he should preside with great state. A short extract of the more important British criminal laws should be proponded for their adoption --- perhaps also the abrogation of various objectionable native customs. They might also be asked to accept the circuit court. The actual business to be done at the meeting is of less moment than the meeting itself. For the Native Doctors seem to argue that it is necessary that the British Govt, should oppose to the King Makers something of greater eclat, and more exciting, than the Village circuit --- at least that this last should be inaugurated with some degree of pomp and ceremony. There is a letter from a number of the Waikato Tribes, of Fenton's friends, which accepting the Governor's word at Rangiriri asks for the general runanga. You know I have been, and am, against these large assemblies if they can be avoided; and should only consent to the summoning of one as a matter of necessity. I am disposed to think that the necessity exists at the present time. The Governor will tell you that it said Potatau has deceived us and is playing a double game. Perhaps it rather is that the old man is vacillating and uncertain. There seems no reason however to doubt that things are going wrong at Ihumatao. If you have the game in hand at Coromandel and are really likely to do a large business, I think you had better stop and finish it. Write your view about the meeting, and go overland to Napier as soon as you can. By trying to do everything you will accomplish nothing. I am, dear McLean, Yours truly, C. W. Richmond.