Raglan, December 29th. 1873. My dear Sir, Hone te One tells me that the Kuiti people found fault with Tiria for bringing Tawhiao's little daughter over to this township. They do not censure her for coming herself. This is what he has heard from other persons, and is not sure that it is true. I also learn from other sources that Tapihana is detained at Kuiti, where it is intended to make him reside. He is not to return to Kawhia. I should say to compel this individual to do anything he did not approve of, would be a difficult task. Therefore, should he remain at Kuiti, it will be his own desire to do so. I am giving you this rumour, just as I heard it. You will doubtless know how far it is true. It is further reported here that in consequence of some act of Tapihana's, during the visit to Alexandra and Cambridge, will prevent the visit of the King and party to Mangatawhia, as talked of; but the visit will be made at a later period. This, I believe, arises out of something he said upon his return from Areka, at a Runanga held at Kuiti: and Rewi's name is coupled with it in some way. But my informant could not explain the matter clearly. Probably you will already have heard of this. Some three weeks ago, a gentleman named Duffus, who was formerly a clerk in the Telegraph Office, Auckland, came here to start a store at Motakotako, Hone te One's Kainga. He has commenced business there. Yesterday a letter was received by Hone: Hakopa, and others, from Te Whero; who states that Manuwhiri has written to him requesting him to order this European away. Hone left to-day for Cambridge, to be present at the Land Court there. He will inform Te Whero about the matter. Hakopa, who told me about the matter. appears very much annoyed, and has left for Motakotako to await the arrival of the persons who may come tomorrow, or otherwise. I have told Hakopa to act cautiously, and should anything important arise, to send for me at once. I have also questioned Mr. Duffus. It is a pity that he did not establish himself at Ruapeke, about two miles away from Hone's. It appears that he was not invited in the first onset by the natives. Hakopa also tells me that a messenger from Kuiti has been despatched to Hone Kiwi, respecting the matter; and he, Hakopa, is afraid that Kiwi and some of his people will make a raid on Mr. Duffus' property, the same as they did some time ago on that of Messrs. Ilbury and Higgins. Hone Kiwi was one of the principal actors in that affair. Hakopa's object in going there is to prevent such a raid. He is to remain there until the matter either blows over, or the Ngatimahuta take some step. I hope to be able to report in my next, that all is well, re this affair. Friendly Chiefs are indignant at this threat of the Hau Haus, coming as it does, after the visit of Tawhiao's daughter; and say, if true, the conduct of Tawhiao is most treacherous; and that whenever a tira wahine was Takahi'ed, the party doing so, was always worsted. They quote the defeat of Pomare's tana, as a precedent, he having invaded Waikato, after Hongi had made peace, by giving a woman to Waikato. Hoping this letter will find you in good health, and wishing you the compliments of the season, and many of them, I am My dear Sir, Yours very faithfully (Signed) R.J. Bush. To:- Hon. D. McLean C.M.G. Wellington.