Napier April 5, 1869 Sir, A short time before your Honor started, in a conversation I had with Mr. Russell he asked me where were all reports that had been brought from Taupo he said I never saw or heard such a lot of alarmists as there are in Napier. - (I expect he forgot Waipukurau) - at the same time that he said the above - he and Col. Laitt had become so frightened that 10 minutes before he had telegraphed to Wellington asking permission of the Govt. to request the natives - (that is the 70 who started yesterday together with Paoro 56) to proceed towards Taupo instead of returning this shows what faith there is to be placed in Mr. Russell's ascertains or remarks - This morning Mr. Tanner started for Taupo but I believe your Honor is already aware of his intention to do so to request the natives to go to Taupo. The enclosed letter I believe is the production of Mr. Wittys pen - not Witty of Wairoa - Mr. Wood does not know who wrote it, but it is so cleverly written that altho he had not the persons real name still be published it. Mr. Carlyon also writes well. I transmit separately a number of letters received by the Murawai. I have already given your Honor a digest of them by Telegram. A translation of each I sent to Mr. Ormond I also send a letter from the Wairoa natives to His Excellency the Governor for your disposal. Both Hamlins have had a row with Col. Lambert. Lambert said I hear Hamlin you have been writing notes to Mr. McLean. I know I have. Well sir, I should like you to know that I send you on behalf of the Govt. and not Mr. McLean - it ended in Mr. Hamlin telling him he would not move a step for him or any of the Govt. Mr. Russell calls the Province of Hawkes Bay the Hot bed of rebellion. I expect he will find it hotter before before he is done with. Govt. are very anxious to establish a Telegraph Station as soon as possible at head of Mohaka. 100 Constabulary are expected overland from Wanganui on the 12 10 pack horses and man are ready to bring their supplies to Taupo. This action I imagine will make another hot bed in the North Island.