Napier February 15th, 1870 To Paora Rerepu and Hone Wainohui -- Friends, salutations to you! You all, perhaps, have heard that Te Kooti, Kereopa, and their people, have returned to Maungapohatu and to Waikaremoana. They ran thither from Patetere. A battle has been fought near Rotorum. Ten of Te Kooti's men were killed, and fifteen wounded. Three of the Government party were wounded. The Ngatihau, the Wanganui, the Arawa, and Ngatituwharetea, are following Te Kooti. Now take notice! He on the elert! Mr. Hamlin is going to see you at Mohaka, and at Wairoa, to arrange for some men to go to Waikare---moana. It may, perhaps, be well for some of you to go with the party. The larger number of you must stop and guard the settlement at Hrharaa, and let some go scouting in the neighbourhood as far as Putere. If you obtain any intelligence, send word at once to Napier and the Wairoa. I am sending you some food, and some powder and ammunition for your rifles. From your friend (Signed) J.D. Ormond. P.S. Since writing the above, I have heard that Ngatikahungumu from Heretaunga, are willing to go to assist you, namely, to go to the South end of Waikaremoana to Wairau. It is for you and Mr. Hamlin to talk over this matter, and if you consider it feasible in your judgement, you must send a messenger here to-morrow, that I may hear quickly. (Signed) J.D.O.