Auckland 8 Octr. 1860 My dear Sir, Having had several conversations with you regarding the Native question generally, and as you have been residing for a considerable time in Waikato as well as at Raglan, I shall feel obliged if you will favor me with your views on a subject which is now before a committee of the H. of R. relating to an attempt to introduce into Waikato a system of Government for the Natives. Fenton as you are aware was the Magistrate appointed to carry out this system. My own opinion from all I could gather has been that Fenton's proceedings at Waikato were calculated rather to irritate the Natives and cause division amongst them than to unite them under what was proposed as a better order of things. Under this belief, and finding considerable excitement among them, I suggested that he should be withdrawn and I have as yet no reason to believe that I was in error in doing so - Your opinion as regards the general mode of Fenton's proceedings would be valuable as your residence in the country would give you a good opportunity of judging whether his proceedings were calculated to do more harm than good. I shall be very glad if you are in town to request you to give evidence either verbally or in writing in reference to this subject. enable you to arrive at a just conclusion on the subject Might I therefore be allowed to put your name down as one of the witnesses to give evidence either in writing or personally in this matter. Copy letter addressed to Captain Johnstone at Whangaroa. Private.