Col. Lyon. May 13th 1873. Sir, With reference to my telegram to you of the 11th. inst. I have the honor to forward to you now further instructions. My confidential memo of Janr. 12th. 1871 was sufficiently explicit as to the main points on which you should be prepared in the event of any emergencies arising, and I need now only refer you to it. Two essential points, however, I must bring to your notice, one is/the subject of roads, the other the supply of ammunition. The former has no doubt fully engaged your attention since you have been in Waikato, and I trust that your subordinates have taken every opportunity to acquire as full a knowledge as possible of the native tracks beyond the boundary, and of the obstacles which exist on them in the shape of creeks, swamps etc., and that they are continuing to obtain information touching them. Should if be unhappily necessary to enter upon hostilities a good knowledge of the enemy's country will be of greatest value, and it will be then that the officers who have made it their duty to become acquainted with the different paths around them will reap the benefit of their zeal. With respect to ammunition I could wish you to have a close examination of what you possess, both Snider and Enfield, both as to quality as well as quantity. You will make allowance for what would be required in the event of your being strengthened by the Militia and Volunteers of the District and, if you consider you are not sufficiently provided, you will have the goodness to lose no time in sending requisitions to make up the desired amount. The A.C. under your command must of course be prepared for any emergency, and you will instruct the officers at the different posts to take care that every man has stout thick boots and is kept in a fit state for marching. With respect to other camp equipage, such as tents, cooking-kettles, tools, stretcher etc., you are to complete yourself from the Auckland stores. In case of anything occurring, I should like to know what medical men there are in your district, what experience they possess, and whether they are provided with instruments. In the event of any unforseen circumstance taking place which would call for immediate action or at a moment when you could not communicate with Wellington, you will have the goodness to adopt without delay whatever defensive measures may appear the most proper to ensure the safety of the lives and property of the settlers. In the present state of affairs it is of course imperative that you should be completely prepared and guarded as far as possible against any danger which may present itself, and I have every confidence that will not neglect any precaution which may conduce to the safety of your district.