Opunake. September 24th. 1872. Dear Sir, I only received your two telegrams on my return here last Monday, as I was detained in town till Mr. Parris' return from Parihaka to draw money for the Police. I wrote you from there on the subject of the Cape Egmont election. At the time I wrote it was generally believed that Major Atkinson would be the successful candidate; but although he agreed with everyone that a Coalition Ministry was most desirable, no distinct promise could be obtained from him that he would join the Opposition to get the present Government out of Office. With the exception of the relations and particular friends of the big family, the electors of the Cape Egmont district have gone over to Mr. Moore-house. For the Patea district, I believe the voters, from what I hear, will be pretty equally divided; but that is of no consequence, as the majority in New Plymouth will easily bring Mr. Moorehouse in. Ballance, the Wanganui Editor, has retired from the field. Mr. O. Carrington is here. He came down late last night. He tells me Mr. Moorehouse had three fourths of the votes. Some of your old friends are working hard in support of Mr. Moorehouse. Halse is doing all he can, and I need not say he has great influence. He told me he had received a letter from you. Old Watson, the harbour-master is out canvassing every day. If he knocks up a dozen Houses, he says he is determined to see you in the Ministry again. I was only sorry I was not free to do more. I had to be careful, as my Chief is a relative of the big family. I could only assist the "Herald" a little; and as several came to ask my opinion on the effect the change would have on the natives, I could only have one opinion - that the present Government could not fail to involve the country in another war. The Parihaka Meeting has been the largest this year ever held there. No decided results having been come to; road and telegraph not discussed; I fancy a secret understanding has been come to among themselves, not to give up the Confiscated Lands; but nothing openly was said on the subject. If I hear anything on the subject, I will let you know. Some persons consider that the taking up of the White Cliff will lead to another war; as they may consider it a challenge. If those people are inclined for mischief, it is better they should be drawn to White Cliff, where they can do little harm, than that they should make a raid on the Waikato settlements. A force sent up the Mokau would keep them busy in their own country, and out of the settled European districts. I remain, yours very truly, (Signed) P.J. Wilson.