New Plymouth May 23, 1857 My dear Sir, The transmission of newspapers is so irregular and uncertain overland, that I have cut out the leader in this days issue for your perusal. I have no reason to alter my opinion of Ihaia's offer - a majority of resident Puketapu natives, bona fide claimants to the Ikamoana, undoubtedly gave the land to Ihaia and Nikorima when in danger of being overpowered by Ngatiruanui, intending at that time to kill Katatore even though it might take them years to do so - the consequences of failing in that resolution never occurred to them and now, rather than displease Katatore, whose claim to the Ikamoana is at once conceded, they have endeavoured to satisfy him and excuse themselves by saying they gave the land to Ihaia for cultivation, not for sale - a shallow plea requiring no comment. I do therefore hope and trust that something will yet be done for Ihaia, be it ever so little. In offering the Ikamoana, Ihaia means his interest, in other words the interest of the donors, at least so I take it, and I believe that if the whole question were submitted to a native runanga, it would be decided in his favor. I also send you the copy of a letter from Ihaia, Nikorima, Pukere and Pita which was injudiciously presented to the Prol. Council by Mr. Hulke, and unless the Special Committee appd. to consider that letter be discharged, I think they will make a mess of it. On the 19th inst., 3 natives arrived at the Ikamoana pa, by the inland track and report that the remainder of the Ngatirahiri natives, about 300, had left apawa on their way hither to settle. They had reached Waikanae and were undecided whether to come on inland by way of Whanganui or by sea - in the latter case they would land at Puketapu. W.Kingi, of Waitara, came into Town last Monday with a few of his people and passed on the following day to Warea to visit Paora Kukutai whose days are becoming very short. I hope the information in reference to Poharama's desire to sell portions of reserves will be satisfactory, in the event of W.Kamaho being permitted to sell his 12 1/2 acres at the Waiwakaiho I think it likely that Rawiri, who is also advanced in years would apply for permission to sell his 12 1/2. He is at Taranaki with W.Kingi. Hoping you are well, believe me My dear sir, Faithfully yours, H. Halse To:- McLean Esq.