Waipawa Novr.3rd, 1863 Dear Sir, I called on Karaitiana on my way up country it appears that the natives intend holding a Runanga at the Pa Whakaairo on the question of the Plains, whether they should let on a long lease or not - they are opposed to letting the land to the Government but Karaitiana is anxious that I should hire it for twenty one years - if they come to the conclusion not to let it for a long term then they intend forming a set of rules under which the uropeans may lease or depasture stock for a short period, they also intend buying some Cows and sheep - I called at Mr.Curlings he is quite well but rather anxious about the Maori reserve the natives have put up a fence partly on his land. I told him that you would settle the affair as soon as the present troubles were over, he is very of his company and at his being an officer. I visited the Stockade yesterday, I expected to see it nearer being completed the slabs are not all up yet - Abott complains about his contract not being carried out he says that he took the contract to supply one hundred Troops and that he is losing greatly by their not coming having bought bullocks &c. every thing appears to be very quiet inland - I remain, Dear Sir, Your obedient servt. S. Locke Donald McLean Esqre., Napier