Napier 7th. January 1869 My dear Richmond, I was delighted to receive your letter of yesterday from Ngatapa, and to hear of the success that has attended the operations there. Nikora's death is of the greatest importance, and I trust, by this time, that Te Kooti has been secured. If he reaches Maungapohatu, it would be a good stroke to follow him up. The Commissariat difficulties are, no doubt, very great. Ngatapa must have been a well-chosen position, from the description you give of it - one of those natural fortresses that Kooti showed much judgement in selecting. There is nothing new from the West Coast. Everyone hails, with satisfaction, the prospect of a return of peace to the East Coast, as it must very much influence the West. I regret to find that a very bad feeling is springing up between the settlers and Friendly Natives at Whanganui. I trust the conduct of the East Coast Friendlies, may be the means of modifying a feeling, which is too apt to gain ground without there being any reasonable or just cause. Fairchild is, no doubt, in a hurry to leave, so I will not add moew now. Wishing you all success. I remain Yours very truly (Signed) Donald McLean.