(Reply to Mrs. Bolland expressing some concern that I had not been asked to tea there.) My dear Madam, I have always found such a kind and welcome reception at the Parsonage that I could never entertain the most distant idea of your inhospitality; and I am certain I might have asked either you or Miss Wright for a cup of tea, if I felt disposed for one; or else have waited supper; but was anxious to get home to give William a lesson, as I have no other time for doing so except the Sunday evenings; and trust you will forgive my running away in this instance, as well as many others, unceremoniously; as I have to attend on others, and seldom have command over my own time. I should have answered your note sooner; but I have been so very busy this morning. I remain, my dear Madam, very sincerely yours, (Signed) Don. McLean. Taranaki. 17th. May 1847. My dear Sir, Since you left here last week, every successive day has brought along with it, its various duties that required so much of my time; that I have been obliged till now to postpone a reply to your letter; which, from your being the bearer of it yourself, was anything but carefully perused during your stay here. But since then, I find it contains a great deal connected with our present researches, both interesting and instructive; and though I fear I cannot enter on a review of its voluminous contents in the present letter, they will not certainly be the less appreciated by me; as I must frequently have recourse to them throughout our investigations. But my object at present is to express the views I entertain as a child of nature, that is, without books, or any foreign aid, of No. 1 proposition of your plan as to the relationship of Christianity to man, and what it is. Christianity, therefore, is a doctrine governed by the indisputable evidence of the existence of its Original Founder; and the connection of that Founder with the Almighty Creator of the great and boundless Universe; Who took upon Himself the nature of man, living and suffering persecution for the doctrine he professed and taught; leaving behind him, immoveable traces of the purity and truth of that doctrine; and its having been designed and originated by a wise Creator, is as evident as the admission that such a Divine being exists; and I believe I need not be called upon to prove that existence; but if I were, I should simply reply that there is so much design and skill displayed in the formation of every natural object around us that it must be occasioned by a wonderful agency that entirely surpasses the comprehension of skill of the most active, visible agency that has ever been seen or known to exist; though man is insome degree, actuated and influenced by a similar - tho' far inferior - degree of design and ingenuity. This would only prove the connection in which he stands to his Creator; who surpasses him in such a wonderful degree that the comparison would shew the vast inferiority of the mortal agent. Christianity is also the principle enjoined by the Divine Agency for our guidance, and nearer approach to him; and in this view it may be considered as the connecting link between Him and His followers; and though it is not, in itself, a material substance, acted upon by the laws of gravity or attraction, it is, notwithstanding, a constituent part of man's nature,- that is, man when actuated by his or any other devotional feeling is raised above every other order of animals in the creation; and according as he progresses, will he raise to that superior ascendancy of mind that shews the vast distinction of his nature from any other unintelligent being. To define religion as a principle confined to Christians alone would require us to base our enquiries on Christianity,- that is, religion being first admitted as the source from which it is derived,- that is, on God as its first and primary object; from whom both we and all proceed to acknowledge him as possessed of the wonderful attributes ascribed to him; and to throw every other deification out of sight; taking God the Father as the Founder of our world, the author of our existence, the awarded of rewards and punishments, and indeed the great and wonderful Director, not only of our earthly sphere which we inhabit,- but of the heavens, and all that our minds can even contemplate of creative power. Then we take Christ, the Son,- the Father's only begotten Son; who worked the wondrous redemption of the human race; took upon him the nature of man, while he was yet God; and promulgated the great Christian truths, for which He, Himself, in the nature of man, suffered the severest death, that worldly terror, pains, cruelties, and barbarism could inflict. From Him, as the Mediator between God and man, we receive the directing influence of Christianity, superadded to our own natural religion; by which we attribute to ourselves the designation of Christians or followers of Christ; all that has been hitherto enveloped and hidden in remote obscurity, not even demonstrated to the keen and ever searching perception of the wise, and otherwise enlightened men and prophets that lived previous to the Christian era,- respecting the real doctrins of religion, were, by the coming of Christ, promulgated and expounded so clearly that the meanest capacities could attain a knowledge of what ensured their eternal salvation. These doctrines were set forth by precept and example, by endurance, by suffering, by patience, by more zeal and earnestness than had ever been hitherto displayed in the propagating of any doctrine; and was afterwards continued to the succeeding generations of man, by the inspired followers who participated in the sufferings of their Master Christ, in disseminating His doctrines. Letter to Dr. Sinclair, on May 24th. 1847, on the subjects,- Principal difficulties, with the natives who offered land for sale, have terminated. The survey of a block of land adjoining the purchase of 1844, of about 10,000 acres, is completed, excepting the maps; having withdrawn surveyors, on account of the rainy season setting in. The Police useful in cutting lines and making tents. £100 instalment paid to natives, for land beyond the Sugar Loaves. Another Block being surveyed, without the land awarded by Mr. Spain. Glad you have anticipated difficulties in the settlement of the question; as they exist from the conflicting interests of Europeans and natives. The latter I can manage to overcome. Obstinacy of the Puketapus. Wanganui reports bad effect; out settlers alarmed,- moving things into town. Bolland's death hardly expected. I shall miss him as a kind and intimate friend; and a severe loss to the settlement. We hope the Governor is on his way. (unsigned draft of letter.) Taranaki New Plymouth. June 4th. 1847. Sir, The negotiations I have been instructed by His Excellency, to carry out with such of the natives as acceeded to the proposals made by him for the purchase of land at this district, are now so far progressed with the Ngamotu tribe as to enable me to place at your disposal, as the Resident Agent of the New Zealand Company, a block of land purchased from that tribe, estimated to contain 11,553 acres, a portion of which is surveyed and subdivided within the limits awarded by Mr. Commissioner Spain, and joining on to the said boundaries. Within the above block of 11.553 acres,- 973 acres have been surveyed and reserved for the natives, (coloured yellow, and numbered on the map 1.2.3.4. At Muturoa, the natives have a part of a section on which their village and cultivations are situated, reserved for them; together with a section, the property of Mr. Shand; for which you have promised to satisfy him by giving land in exchange, or refunding the purchase money advanced towards the said section. The land divided amongst the whalers, by section, being an understanding with Colonel Wakefield, and within the limits now placed at your disposal, requires no interference on my part further than consenting to such an arrangement. All lands at present occupied and in cultivation by the natives, are to continue in their possession till they have had time to establish themselves on their present reserves,- say a period of not exceeding three years be allowed them to tatally abandon all claims within the present purchase, excepting their reserves. Any assistance or information required in the meantime, by such of the settlers as are desirous of choosing either by myself or the surveyors engaged by the Government, will be rendered if necessary; and I have reason to hope they may obtain and continue in undisturbed possession of all the lands that are now acquired; and where the survey of additional districts those already surveyed, are required, immediate attention will be given to facilitate the occupation of intending settlers. (unsigned copy.) June 3rd. 1847. Memo. of Agreement between Dr. Miller, of New Plymouth, on the one part; and Samuel Matthews, as Agent of Wm. Edgecombe, of Auckland, on the other,- agreeth that the said Samuel Matthews lets or leases for 6 months certain, a cottage with 2 acres of land, situated near the new Hospital, for a sum of two shillings and sixpence per week,- the rent to commence from the 7th. day of June 1847; and the said Dr. Miller agrees to pay half a year's rent, in the event of his leaving before the term expires. Witness, (Signed) Don. McLean. (undated). Dear Mr. Whitely, I was anxious to forward by this mail to Auckland, a sum of Twenty Pounds (£20); but find a difficulty in procuring cheques. I can trespass so far on your kindness, to advance that sum for me which I can repay you from here either in silver, or Wellington cheques (when Capt. King receives an authority for which he has written, to draw on the Bank there.) In case you can conveniently make this arrangement for me, I send, open to your care, a note addressed to the party the money is intended for at Auckland; which note you will please return, in case you may not draw, or may not wish to draw at present. The late accounts from Wanganui are anything but favourable. House-burning and pillaging is still carried on. A very troublesome Chief, named Maketu, was shot dead in the act of robbing Mr. Churton's house. The Governor has been here in the steamer. With reinforcements, they are now 400 strong there; and he has gone to Wellington for more troops; intending, probably, to have a Winter's campaign there. At Taranaki we are much the same as when when I last wrote. We did anticipate a quarrel about a Whaling Station; which I have returned from putting a stop to; and I find the aid of a Police to support my decisions, of incalculable advantage,- both with Europeans and natives. Poor Bolland, you will have heard, is dead. Rimen. (as I abbreviate his long German name, has had a very large Meeting at Taranaki lately Kumaroa has paid me a visit on his way down the coast. (unsigned copy.) Taranaki New Plymouth. 14th. June 1847. Mr. Newel, Sir, By the Master of the "Catherine Johnson", Mr. Peter Marks, I forward you, according to promise, a sum of Seven Pounds stg. (£7); the receipt of which you will please acknowledge; and I shall take an early opportunity of sending you the balance, (as it is rather a risk sending too much by small coasting vessels, particularly at this dangerous season of the year. However, I have chances this much; as I was afraid you were in need of the money. I shall be glad to hear from you by the bearer, and know how you are getting on at Auckland. Will you tell Rooney to let me know the price of the boots, and send me round a pair of good calf or kangaroo skin shoes. How is Mr. Kennedy? The Gordons still up the Thames? I remain. Sir, Your obedient servant, (signed) Donald McLean. To:- Mr. Benjamin Newel. Auckland. (undated). 1847 My dear Sir, As I did not write you by the last mail, I avail myself of an opportunity of now doing so, by a small cutter bound to Manukau. We have heard from Wellington this morning that His Excellency had embarked with a considerable force under command of Lieut.-Colonel McLaverty, for Wanganui; to carry on operations against the insurgent natives of that district; and I trust he may prove successful in giving them a severe chastisement; as, with all the demonstrations that are made, they do not seem readily disposed, especially in such inaccessible, wild recesses, as they have up that river, to yield submission to British authority; nor is it probable that any effort, however energetic and skillful, will effect that submission; unless the natives depart from their usual wariness, and venture an open engagement with our troops; though I fear we shall not be favoured with any such sudden departure from their usual customs. But even supposing the present expedition may prove unsuccessful as a military exploit, still a great amount of good will be realised, by convincing the disaffected natives, which the present formidable display has been made, and disaffected,- that influential Chiefs, - such as the Whero Whero and Tamati, will combine with the Government to suppress them; and also that a strong force can be brought with secrecy and despatch, to suppress them. I can assure you I am glad that we have, in our unprotected state, averted a very real danger with the natives; but I am not certain this will long continue; and a circumstance, in itself trifling, compared to the peace of the community, may soon emerge us in difficulties rather serious to contemplate; and perhaps I am, to some extent to blame for not communicating the case sooner to Auckland; but avoided doing so from its not wearing any serious aspect, and from an expectation that it could have been amicably adjusted between the contending parties. The parties concerned are Mr. Brown, a merchant of this place; and some of the resident natives. Mr. Brown has, for some time, rented and occupied a Station from the natives, to carry on whaling; but, from a series of quarrels that took place between them, they gave him notice at the close of last season, to discontinue the occupation of the land he rented from them. Heon the other hand, wished to renew their agreement on liberal terms; to which they obstinately objected to aceede. The case was referred to me; but the natives, especially Poharama, the principal that district, would not be induced to accept any terms; and he very possibly concluded that as the land he claimed was cultivated and settled on by him since and before the formation of the settlement; that by the Acts of Mr. Spain, and the policy universally adopted by the Government, to ensure their cultivations and Reserves to them, he was so far strengthened in his determination to maintain a right that had never been in any instance disputed;- I therefore, in making the Reserves, did not of course deviate from what had been previously done in such cases; that was,- informing the natives that where no European interest suffered, and where no encroachments or cultivations had been made, that they should have their Reserves secured to them on such places as they were for a term of years established; it may be easily imagined that the relinquishment of such places would be impossible, except by coersion or force. [unsigned copy.] Taranaki New Plymouth. June 18th. 1847. Sir, Hearing that Your Excellency is likely to remain at Wanganui for some time, I do myself the honor to forward a despatch by a native Policeman direct to your quarters, to acquaint you with the steps taken pursuant to your instructions of March last, for purchasing and acquiring lands from the natives of this district. The first purchase concluded, has been with a portion of the Taranaki tribe; for a Block of land fourteen miles South of the settlement; estimated by Mr. Carrington, the surveyor, to contain about three thousand five hundred and sixty three,- 3563 acres; a plan of which is annexed to the enclosed translation of deed, transferring the same, two copies of which in their own language have been furnished to the natives, and a map which has been handed to Capt. King for transmission to Auckland. I found it necessary, in order that the numerous claimants should at once participate in a share of the purchase money, which I fixed at One Hundred and fifty, £150, pounds, to make the first instalment One Hundred Pounds, £100 of the amount; the receipt of which is acknowledged in the deed of which I enclose a copy, and the remaining balance of Fifty Pounds, (£50), to be paid over to them on the fourteenth day of May, Eighteen Hundred and forty-eight, 1848 twelve months after the receipt of the first instalment, the greater portion of which has been judiciously expended by them in the purchase of cattle. That there should be as little deviation as possible from Your Excellency's instructions to extend the payments over three years, and also to obtain a patch not comprised within the present purchase, though naturally connected by the river boundary with the present purchase, I have promised the natives that a third instalment of Fifty Pounds, £50, should be paid them in May 1849, conditionally that within that time they will abandon all their claims and cultivations thereon, to which proposal there is every probability of their acceding. Mr. Carrigton, with a party of natives, and occasionally assisted by the Police, is engaged with the survey of a tract of land owned by the same tribe near the Sugar Loaves, adjoining the Block of 60,000 acres awarded by Mr. Spain to the Company. On this land, the Puketapu tribe have for some years cultivated; but were recently warned to leave, by those of Taranaki; which some of them have done; and the few that still remain will soon be induced, from their precarious tenure, to follow; and this opens up a valuable outlet for the cattle of the settlers; on which they could not have hitherto grazed, without being in many instances subject to the damages for trespass. Sufficient progress has not as yet been made with this survey to enable me to give an accurate idea of its extent, from the uncertain course of a river that forms its Southern boundary,- six to seven thousand acres being all that are yet laid down. From the extravagant and urgent claims of the natives on the one hand, and the various interests of resident and absentee proprietors within the surveyed limits of the company, on the other,- it is with difficulty I have succeeded in obtaining land from the Ngamotu tribe, of sufficient extent to make permanent provision for themselves, and meet the wants of the Europeans. This difficulty is, however, almost entirely obviated by their having surrendered their claim to a considerable tract of country, 11,531 acres of which are partially surveyed; and out of which 970 acres are reserved for themselves in such situations as are least likely to interfere with the settlers. Out of this block, a portion of which is subdivided into 50 acres sections, there are 970 acres reserved for the natives, in situations where they are least likely to interfere with the European inhabitants; and are at the same time, well-adapted for the natives' own purposes; one of them being situated near a large lagoon abounding with eels and other fish; another has a good sea frontage; and the third is on the banks of the Waiwakaio river;- all of them removed as far as practicable, from lands chosen by settlers. A section of 50 acres previously intended as a Reserve, I have still continued as such,- partly from its being occupied by the natives; and from a wish to provide for absentee claimants returning from the South; who might not be induced to go on the general Reserves; and should this contingency not arise, it would be convenient as a planting ground for natives visiting the settlement, on trading or other expeditions; remaining, of course as all other land arrangements, in abeyance till Your Excellency has directed, as to its disposal. That the claims of the original native owners of the lands comprised in these reserves should be entirely extinguished, so as to prevent their exercising an exclusive right over them, I have informed the natives that they should be considered part of the present purchase; that the Government might interpose, should any differences arise amongst them, as to an equitable division with themselves or their absentee relatives returning to the district. This will also provide against objections being hereafter raised, to public roads being made through them; and they are also given to understand that a right of public road is reserved through their lands, on similar conditions to those of the European settlers. They seem to understand and enter into these arrangements. Some of them are preparing to establish themselves on their reserves. Still, I consider it will be prudent to allow them a period of two years to vacate their present cultivations; as by that time, their reserved lands would be sufficiently prepared, without subjecting them to difficulties in raising crops; and I am not aware that this would occasion inconvenience to landowners; as they (the natives) would not be permitted to clear, or break up, fresh lands. (unsigned copy.) (of reply to Mrs. Bolland's letter, with books and knife in remembrance of her husband.) Taranaki. June 22nd. 1847. My dear Mrs. Bolland, Few events have happened to me throughout the course of my life, that have made such a strong and sorrowful impression on my mind, as the death of my esteemed and ever to be lamented clergyman and dear friend.; the remembrance of whom is deeply embittered from a certain consciousness that I have been too neglectful and disregardless of him in his last moments. I only saw him once during his illness. Could I then anticipate that that should be our last interview, I should have knelt by his bedside, and kissed him, and implored his blessing. Within myself I stand strongly convicted of hard-hearted cruelty towards him; for not pressing through the formal restrictions laid on his sick chamber, to assist, if I could, in alleviating his distress, and afford myself an opportunity of bidding him a last and final adieu. I cannot now describe how I felt when told that he enquired several times for me on the day of his death; of which I was ignorant till the following morning. Could I only have known it in time to hear his voice, feeble and inarticulate as it became, it would have relieved me from a heavy pressure of grief that must only now give vent in some retreat where we have rambled together; or over his cold, uncompromising grave. It is true there are many remembrances of him carefully treasured up in my bosom. Can I forget our various happy walks together; our bathes; our evening encampments along the coast; our conversations; and our undisturbed and increasing friendship, extending over a space of two or three years? These, in addition to various other circumstances, shall not be easily effaced or forgotten. It gives me the greatest satisfaction to find you are confident I should not do so; and the very nice tokens of remembrance, of his, which you have sent me, are, I can assure you, very highly prized and esteemed. His voice I can hear no more; but from his books I will derive something that he himself would have told me; and shall therefore set apart a portion of Sunday for their perusal; and shall request, when you leave the Parsonage,- a spot I have now, like yourself, a strong aversion to visit (were it not for its inmates) to write my name in the 2 volumes of Leighton; and ink over that in the testament. The pen-knife takes the place of one I have for some time carried. It and the Testament shall be my travelling companions over the roads I have walked with him who owned them. I need scarcely say that I sympathise and feel for you under your trying affliction; in which you will, however, have discerned the hand of a wonderful Providence; whose visitations and afflictions are intended to prepare us all for a future and happier existence; where we hope to meet in joy, those for whom we are now lamenting; and may that same Almighty, who has deprived you of your greatest source of worldly comfort, strengthen you under your bereavement and distress; and bless, and continue to you the precious gift he has been pleased to bestow upon you; this is my earnest prayer on your behalf. I have only now, my dear Mrs. Bolland, to entreat that you will not hesitate to send to me, at any season, morning, noon, or night, to do whatever possibly lies in my power, to further your comfort; by availing yourself of any assistance or advice I may render; you will be conferring a great favour on me; as I shall be afforded some opportunities certifying, that with the death of your husband, does not die the feeling of friendship that existed between us, and towards him and his. Believe me, my dear Mrs. Bolland, to remain your very sincere and affectionate friend, (Signed) Donald McLean. Taranaki. New Plymouth. 18th. June 1847. Sir, I do myself the honour to acquaint you, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that the purchase of the Block of land from the Taranaki natives South of the settlement, which I was instructed by His Excellency to attend to in the first instance was concluded in May last, the first instalment of One Hundred (£100) having been handed over to the natives, as acknowledged by them in the Deed of Transfer, of which a copy and translation is herewith enclosed. In order that the numerous claimants to this small purchase, estimated by Mr. Carrington, at Three thousand five hundred and sixty-three (3363) acres, should at once participate in a share of the purchase money, which was fixed at One hundred and fifty pounds (£150) I was induced to make the first payment One hundred pounds (£100) of the amount, the most of which I am glad to observe they are judiciously expending in the purchase of cattle; and the remaining balance of Fifty pounds (£50) to be handed to them on the 28th. of May 1848 as a full completion of the Deed executed by them, copies of which have been furnished to themselves, with plans annexed, shewing the name and boundaries of the lands they have disposed of. That there should be as little deviation as possible from His Excellency's instructions to extend the payments over a period of three years, I have told the natives they should receive a third instalment of £50 in May 1849, if within that time they relinquish their claims, and abandon their cultivations on a patch of land not comprised in the present purchase, though naturally connected with it by a river boundary (as is more distinctly shewn on a map handed to Capt. King for transmission to Auckland (; to which terms, I have reason to believe, they will accede, as the arrangements already concluded, appear to give entire satisfaction; and may, in all probability, lead to the acquisition of a greater extent of the fertile and beautiful country of which this tribe are possessed. Mr. Carrington, with a party of natives, and occasionally assisted by the police, is engaged with the survey of a tract of country claimed by the same tribe, adjoining the Southern boundary of the 60,000 acres awarded by Mr. Spain to the Company; but as yet the survey has not sufficiently progressed to enable me to form an acurate idea of the extent of the purchase, from the uncertain course of a river that forms its Southern boundary. I have etc., etc., etc., (Signed) Donald McLean. Inspector of Police. To:- The Honourable The Colonial Secretary Auckland. The difference in the order of dates is accounted for by this letter not being inserted here till the date of its transmission. See Prirate Despatch Book. (Signed) D. McL. . Letter to Dr. Sinclair 14 July 1847. I intended to have written him at length, but was engaged in paying first instalment to the Ngamotu natives for land on Saturday, the day the mail closed; also to have forwarded report of arrangements with the Ngamotu natives; only their not accepting the payment induced me to defer it till I knew their reasons. They have, however, surrendered their claim to a considerable block of land, of which a partial survey has been made; and reserves for themselves laid down for them in such situations as are least likely to interfere or clash with the resident settlers; having induced them to remove some distance from where the Europeans are located. I have been only obliged to include two sections chosen by Europeans in their reserves. On one of these, the property of the late Mr. Barrett, they have had a village, and cultivation previous to, and ever since the formation of the settlement. A part of this land, a Whaling Station, was rented from the natives by a merchant of this place, Mr. Brown; but in consequence of some difference between him and the natives, they warned him to leave there about 12 months past; and notwithstanding my endeavours to further a pursuit so advantageous to the settlement, I could not overcome the animosity of the natives. Mr. Brown is therefore obliged to the Rev. Mr. Turton for allowing him a part of his Station to carry on his whaling operations for this season. We are expecting a large body of natives from the South; the anticipation of which prevents our resident natives from coming as readily to terms, with their land, as they otherwise would do. We shall soon, however, be comparatively independent of them in this respect, for a time, at least. The worst feature in our settlement at present is that many of our best mechanics and labourers are leaving for Auckland and Wellington, in search of higher wages; which will be felt as a great deprivation to the settlement; as it loses many of those whose industry added considerably to our agricultural prosperity; by the wheat and other articles raised and exported by them; that are so necessary for the maintenance and support of an infant Colony; and it is questionable whether their removal will improve their own circumstances; as it too often happens they turn their attention to other speculative modes of earning a livelihood, that in many instances do not turn out so much to their advantage. I hope His Excellency will think of replacing them by sending us some of the pensioners that are expected to the Colony; as this would be a favourable district for their location. Our roads and bridges are in a great state of dilapidation. One of the principal bridges has been destroyed with the late floods; and through the assistance of the Police, I have been enabled to secure some of the iron-work. The wood is totally decayed; and is being used for fire-wood. I trust His Excellency will think of granting us something during the next Session of Council, for the repairs of our bridges. The Government Brig has called here from Wanganui, and land £500. There was nothing doing there. Major Mc-Lerty daily expected a brush with the natives. I would add a deal more; but the native is in a hurry to be off; and believe me to remain, my Dear Sir, yours faithfully, (Signed) Donald McLean. Taranaki. loth. August 1847. Sir, I do myself the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 22nd. May; instructing me that it will be necessary to obtain the signatures of the natives to the Deed of Transfer for land purchased from them under Governor Fitz Roy's arrangement; with separate attested receipts, for the payment of the further compensation they are to receive. In reply I beg to inform you that a sum of Fifty Pounds (£50) is due to the resident natives of the Ngamotu tribe, from whom I can obtain the necessary receipts when I receive that amount from Capt. King; who tells me he is not allowed to advance it without a written authority from His Excellency; which he has wished me to apply for on behalf of the natives; and I therefore avail myself of this opportunity of doing so. I have the honor to remain Sir, Your most etc. etc. etc. (Signed) Donald McLean. . Taranaki New Plymouth. July 16th. 1846. My dear Sir, I have received the tea and sugar, for which I feel much obliged; as they are very reasonable, and much better quality than I can procure at this place. The sugar was 25 lbs short of the weight you charge; but I suppose, as the bag was broken, someone made free with its contents,- either on board the vessel, or afterwards. If the remaining part of the order can be procured reasonably, you will perhaps send it by the bearer,- one of my own men, Newsham, it will be taken care of. I enclose an order from a very industrious, respectable countryman of our own, Mr. Black. If you can furnish the articles he has furnished a list of, I will be answerable for the amount; and what you send for me may be addressed to his care; as I am frequently from home; or indeed it would be better to address them entirely to him,- W. Black, Baker, New Plymouth. He tells me he has a quantity of flour on hand; expecting to supply the Troops if they came here; but would now, in consequence of their not coming, dispose of it at Wellington; if you could let him know when there is a good market, and if you would dispose of it for him. We are tolerably quiet at present; and the Land Question goes on as well as can be expected in the very unsettled state of the native population, throughout the Island. I have to thank you for the newspapers. The Spectators I subscribe to; so that if you send any, let it be an Independent. In haste, Yours very truly, (Signed) Donald McLean. . Taranaki. 19th. July 1847. My dear Sir, Wanganui seems unfortunately destined, with its poor suffering settlers, to the fate which you seemed to forsee in the early stages of its establishment. In reading the published copies of your correspondence, as far back as 1842, with Capt. Smith,- afterwards re-addressed to Col. Wakefield,- in which you then felt assured it should not become your resting place,- some permanent re-arrangement was made with the natives; and though your opinion might have been then (from the very different state of the native population), considered problematical,- subsequent events have too fully realised and proved the solution of them. Still, I do not altogether abandon the idea that Wanganui will yet be what we should wish it,- a peaceable, flourishing English settlement; for which it possesses so many natural advantages; and though you may say that these advantages are over-rated, and that its prosperity is something very distant ....... (unfinished) . Taranaki. July 21st. 1847. My dear Sir, I find the impression as to a seven years' drought and famine still obtains amongst the Ngatiranuis; and from present appearances they intend to use the hint to advantage, by enlarging their wheat cultivations; which they seem to think will be the only crop that will save them from a similar fate to that of our poor country-people in Ireland and Scotland; whose present deplorable condition is not only rousing the sympathy of a charitable people at home, but also of a numerous and influential body of Colonists abroad. I observe, by a recent Sydney paper, that large collections are being made in New South Wales for the unfortunate sufferers in the Mother Country. Nor is this distress confined to Britain alone. It has also spread over a great portion of the Continent; and as these visitations of Providence are not confined to any particular locality, it becomes an obvious duty on our part to make such provision, as may in some degree, tend to mitigate the alarming consequences of such a calamity, should our Island have a similar visitation; as we cannot expect much from distant sources; when there are so many urgent demands existing on the benevolence and charity of those who are disposed to contribute towards alleviating the wants of others; and although we cannot trace the origin, amongst the natives, of this anticipated drought, to any authentic individual source; it may have arisen from the circumstances to which I have alluded; being talked of in their presence, by persons who may have undesignedly been instrumental in leading them, through their own naturally exaggerated conceptions, to a belief that a similar fate awaited this country; and thus, not only prepare them for its attendant consequences; but also promote industry, harmony, and peace amongst them. A race, like them, possessed of strong natural passions, must, along with the mild and conciliating influence of Christianity, have their minds engaged with such occupations as tend to the developement of their physical powers, and the restraint of such passions; and as we are taught by experience that our own resourses must then form our greatest support,- the more we co-operate with the natives in furthering such improvements as will render us all comparatively independent, the better. I therefore resolved, on mature consideration, to forego the opposition I have hitherto had, to their erecting large Water Mills, from the complicated and expensive nature of such an undertaking; and even should they, in some in-in some instances fail to realise their expectations, the reflection will not be upon us, for not cautioning them as to the extensive nature of their operations; and any loss they sustained would be fully repaid by their attentions being diverted from more precarious and dangerous pursuits; and directed to the cultivation of industrious habits, that will, together with the mild and conciliatory principles of Christianity, promote civilization, harmony, and peace; and if such is the happy result of the report of an anticipated drought of seven years, amongst them, we shall not regret being unable to trace its authenticity to any individual source; but rather congratulate ourselves on its having caused a more important feature in their improvement than we could have been led to believe, when first it circulated amongst them. Men of strong natural passions and propensities, as the New Zealanders, must, if lazily inclined, be stimulated to habits of industry; which, with some degree of prudence, may be easily accomplished; as they are naturally possessed of active and avaricious minds; which, if properly directed, will furnish us with more pleasing demonstrations of native character; than those qualities might lead us to expect; and the further developement of their physical powers and mental capacities, will always furnish an interesting study for our investigation and research. I must, however, suspend my opinion as to the erection of a Mill at the Orokohai, till I have had yours; and have informed the natives accordingly; but should you coincide with my views on the subject, the following are the terms which I shall propose for your consideration and the natives'. First that they lodge a sum of £60 or so as a deposit in advance; to ensure the services of a man to commence the undertaking; who would be paid a certain sum for going down to report on, and inspect, the site for the Mill, as well as to furnish a statement as to the most reasonable terms for its construction and completion; the work to be, when finished, inspected by a skilful mechanic; and the Mill to be a small, convenient size that could afterwards be managed by the natives. The further payments to be made at certain periods, to he hereafter fixed,- say a certain number of pigs, every two or three months, till the whole is paid; and the former sum of £60 to be kept in hand till the Mill is completed and inspected; that it may be finished according to agreement; and as the erection of a house forms an expensive part of the work, perhaps the natives would do that part themselves; and thereby facilitate the work, and moderate the expense attending it. I remain. my dear Sir, yours faithfully, (Signed) Don. McLean. Taranaki. August 4th. 1847. My dear Mr. Taylor, On my return yesterday evening from Warea, I received news of the 23rd. ult., with a cheque on the Union Bank at Wellington, for Twenty-Five Pounds; for which, and your kind anticipation of my ------ (?) I have to return you many thanks. By this remittance I am enabled to purchase land and houses, where I am living, for Fifty-Five Pounds; which will ultimately, and even now, in rent, afford me a return of 12% on the outlay. Still, I am very much afraid, that however acceptable the sum is to me, that you must have put yourself to some inconvenience in furnishing it at present; and I am not at all unconscious of the various unforseen demands there must have been on your purse, from the change of circumstances, since I wrote you at Auckland. Do not therefore think of sending me the remaining £25; as you were quite released from your promise. by the unfortunate difficulties that have since arisen. The only condition on which I expected to be favoured with your assistance was in case you should have a sum at the North lying idle; for which I should allow equal interest as could be otherwise obtained; which I calculate about 8 1/2%. Respecting the two cows alluded to in your letter, I shall be very glad to have them, if you intend disposing of them; and if of a good breed, and favourites, you might, after all the disturbances are over, have either of them back again, should you wish. Probably they might be driven up in company with other cattle for this place; or in the charge of some careful native. The price would, of course, be fixed by yourself, at Wanganui. My desire is to get hold of good breeding stock. I am in treaty for a beautiful large breeding mare; for which I expect I shall have to pay £40. I should like to be with you, to have part of your troubles, in your lonely hermitage. The poor Missionary House must have a melancholy appearance, since its cheefful inmates have left. But I am really very glad that both you and it stand the wars so well; were it only to keep your little Putiki native flock together. Is it true Amarama is killed? That is the report here. If so you only want Karamu and Ngapara put an end to, to have a tolerable prospect of peace. I have been very much disappointed; which, in a great measure arises from having sanguine expectations. The last engagement would have been more to our advantage. It will, no doubt, be viewed by the natives, especially by those who are at a distance, as a complete defeat. Taranaki. August 4th. 1847. My dear Mr. Taylor, On my return yesterday evening from Warea, I received news of the 23rd. ult., with a cheque on the Union Bank at Wellington, for Twenty-Five Pounds; for which, and your kind anticipation of my ------ (?) I have to return you many thanks. By this remittance I am enabled to purchase land and houses, where I am living, for Fifty-Five Pounds; which will ultimately, and even now, in rent, afford me a return of 12% on the outlay. Still, I am very much afraid, that however acceptable the sum is to me, that you must have put yourself to some inconvenience in furnishing it at present; and I am not at all unconscious of the various unforseen demands there must have been on your purse, from the change of circumstances, since I wrote you at Auckland. Do not therefore think of sending me the remaining £25; as you were quite released from your promise. by the unfortunate difficulties that have since arisen. The only condition on which I expected to be favoured with your assistance was in case you should have a sum at the North lying idle; for which I should allow equal interest as could be otherwise obtained; which I calculate about 8 1/2%. Respecting the two cows alluded to in your letter, I shall be very glad to have them, if you intend disposing of them; and if of a good breed, and favourites, you might, after all the disturbances are over, have either of them back again, should you wish. Probably they might be driven up in company with other cattle for this place; or in the charge of some careful native. The price would, of course, be fixed by yourself, at Wanganui. My desire is to get hold of good breeding stock. I am in treaty for a beautiful large breeding mare; for which I expect I shall have to pay £40. I should like to be with you, to have part of your troubles, in your lonely hermitage. The poor Missionary House must have a melancholy appearance, since its cheefful inmates have left. But I am really very glad that both you and it stand the wars so well; were it only to keep your little Putiki native flock together. Is it true Amarama is killed? That is the report here. If so you only want Karamu and Ngapara put an end to, to have a tolerable prospect of peace. I have been very much disappointed; which, in a great measure arises from having sanguine expectations. The last engagement would have been more to our advantage. It will, no doubt, be viewed by the natives, especially by those who are at a distance, as a complete defeat. Bishop not coming here, except for Bolland; his wife's regards. Wicksteed succeeded by Dr. Bell. Hulke remaining here. Basil's books to go by Wellington. Sincerely yours, (Signed) Don. McLean. . Taranaki New Plymouth. 1846. Sir, I do myself the honour to enclose for Your Excellency's information, a statement of the circumstances connected with the ''Tapu'' on the road to Mokau, shewing the steps that have been taken towards doing away with it; together with copies of correspondence with the Natives on the subject. I have the honor to be Sir, Your Excellency's most obedient servant, (Signed) Donald McLean. Protector of Aborigines Western District. To:- His Excellency Captain Grey, Governor of New Zealand. New Plymouth. March 9th. 1846. The Tapu on the road to Mokau originated in a quarrel that took place amongst the Natives of Huirangi Pa, on the Waitara River, respecting land, - when one of the parties laying claim to the same, considering himself likely to be defeated, uttered a curse against Taonui, a Mokau Chief, expecting that he would come down with a strong force to seek satisfaction, and dispossess all the natives in that neighbourhood of their land, as has (undated) My dear Mrs. Bolland, I regret that you should pay the slightest attention to any ill-natured gossip that is generally so freely circulated about the place. As far as I am concerned, it shall not have the slightest influence on my proceedings; as I invariably treat all undeserved imputations with perfect indifference and contempt. You may therefore rest assured, as I have already told your sister, that every assistance and protection shall be afforded you in your present desolate and forlorn condition; and this I wish you to understand shall be entirely in fulfilment and accordance with my public duties. I shall therefore direct a policeman to be stationed at the Parsonage, when necessary; but I must request that he is not at any time to be dismissed from there without my permission; as that would be subversive to the discipline I wish to be observed and strictly adhered to in the Force. Mr. Cooke being there cannot be relied on with any degree of certainty; that shall therefore not interfere in the least with my arrangements, further than perhaps to change the Policeman's station; where he would be still immediately- available, to apprehend any intruders. As you must now perceive that my object in having a Policeman at your place is fully in accordance with my public duties, you will, I trust, resign every feeling of delicacy on the subject. And believe me to remain, Very sincerely yours. (Signed) Donald McLean. Taranaki. August 17th. 1847. My dear Sir, I intended to have written you at the time of Mr. Bolland's death; but was, at the time, so much affected by that sorrowful event, and the various circupstances attending it, that I neglected the opportunity. To me, this has been a most serious and severe loss; as he was my most intimate and beloved friend, and kind neighbour. But I am not the only one who will regret him. All who knew him, and over whom he presided as Pastor, will long continue to mourn his loss, taken away from amidst us when his sphere of usefulness was extending, in the bloom of his days, before he had reached those years of maturity that would have enhanced his worth, and left an everlasting monument behind him, to be borne in remembrance by all who knew him. Since his death, poor Mrs. Bolland has confined herself to her room, and scarcely sees any one. She and her baby are in tolerable health; but so strongly was she attached to her husband, that it will be long before she will regain sufficient fortitude to overoome her sad bereavement. The Bishop's visit, short as it was, must have been a great relief to her; and altogether, it was a most interesting scene; and appeared more like a dream of fiction than reality; his landing at about 4, transacting business, preaching a long and most interesting sermon baptizing several children,- a ceremony under the circumstances, with a congregation wonderfully numerous, summoned by the tolling of the bell, in a few moments, together; and infants, and grown-up children brought forward in front of the congregation, as members of the Church; the departure, on the Taranaki beach, with a whiter rolling surf, amongst numerous spectators, in the silent watches of the night; and all so sudden, and unexpected a movement did certainly create a stir in our peaceable and quiet little hamlet; that did not create unnecessary bustle or excitement; but a species of pleasing sensation amongst many; that the Bishop had come to pay his respects due to the memory of one of his beloved and esteemed clergy, as I certainly believe Mr. Bolland deservedly was. (unsigned copy.) (undated). Atkins Esq. Inspector of Police. Auckland. Dear Sir, I have had an application from a Private, named Baynes, who served in the New Zealand Force at this settlement,- for his discharge; as it appears he is anxious to be enrolled in the Force under your Command, at Auckland; and I was very glad to hear you would not receive him without the necessary testimonials; as it will be the means of cautioning others who are unprovided with such documents, from leaving the Force with which they are connected, in anticipation of being enrolled elsewhere; and also render them more circumspect in their conduct, when in public service. I have not, however, any fault to find with the man's general conduct, that will in the slightest degree affect his character; as I believe him to be honest,- further than may be easily remedied by him, if he is at all attentive. The occasion of his dismissal was for insolence to the Sergeant and Corporal, and disobedience of orders; and I have some fears, although he is an active man, and tolerable drill, that he is deficient of that shrewdness and intellect that would render him trustworthy and efficient, as a policeman; but if he can be placed under the care and observation of your Non-Commissioned Officers, that cannot always have men possessed of all the necessary qualifications, that he would be equal to the general run of men that compose the large body of the Police. On poor Mrs. Bolland's account, I was exceedingly glad to see the Bishop call here; as she was very undecided before his arrival as to what she was to do. I believe, now, that it is her intention to have a house built in town, and reside there. There has been something peculiarly interesting to the quiet and secluded people of New Plymouth, in the Bishop's visit; landing unexpectedly from his little schooner, late in the evening; delivering a most affecting discourse; and few persons snatched away in the prime of life, especially in a Colony, where the finer feelings of humanity are so apt to degenerate, could have left so durable a monument,- not of cold marble, but of warm affection and esteem, in the hearts of those over whom he presided. Poor Mrs. Bolland has entirely confined herself to her room; and scarcely sees anyone. The Bishop's visit, short as it was, will, I expect, have relieved her from a considerable load of grief and anxiety; on which account I was exceedingly glad to see him here. He landed late in the afternoon, delivered a most interesting sermon to a numerous congregation, baptized several children, and went off about 11 p.m., an unusual hour, you will say, to send a boat off in the rolling white surf of Taranaki. His visit altogether created a pleasing sensation amongst the peaceable inhabitants of our hamlet. I am glad to hear that Mr. Fisher is recovered by this time. He is, no doubt, able to resume his duties at the College. I send enclosed in the parcel from the Parsonage, £4, and a letter addressed to Mr. Thatcher; which they request to be sent to him soon, as it is on business. The Policeman is ordered to go with your parcel to the College; so that we shall be most glad to hear from you on his return,- and believe me to remain my dear Sir, Yours most sincerely, (Signed) Don. McLean. Taranaki. 23rd. August 1847. Dear Sir, I have received several numbers of the "Nelson Examiner"; for which I feel much obliged, and beg your acceptance of the enclosed order on one of your merchants for £2, as my subscription towards the paper; which, from the respectable manner in which it is conducted, deserves encouragement. I shall therefore receive it regularly, if you instruct an Agent at this place to call upon me for the quarterly payments. I remain, in haste, as the mail just leaves, and have not time to add anything further. Yours truly, (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- Chas Elliot Esq. Nelson. (undated copy) Sir, I do myself the honor to acquaint you, for the information of His Excellency, that a body of the Puketapus came in to the town yesterday, in expectation of meeting the Taranaki natives; who were expected to come up and receive payment for their land, that has been lately surveyed, as reported in my letter of the 17th. inst.,- intending to advance a claim for a share of the payment for the land, as compensation for their pigs that were killed by the Taranaki people in satisfaction for their woman that was taken from them, when on a friendly visit to Puketapu; and from the preparations made by the latter tribe, it was pretty evident if they met the Taranaki people and that their claim was not regarded, that an engagement would have ensued; the ultimate result of which, especially if the Puketapus were conquerors, would have endangered our settlement; by subjecting it, under their excitement, to the despoilation of a tribe who have never evinced any symptoms of friendship to the Europeans. [unsigned copy.] Taranaki New Plymouth. September 2nd. 1847. Sir, I do myself the honor to acquaint Your Excellency that the arrangements with the Taranaki natives, for land adjoining that awarded by Mr. Spain, to the Company, and estimated to contain twelve thousand acres, 12.000, have been this day concluded,- the natives having executed the Deed, and received the first instalment. Having previously reported through the Colonial Secretary, that I had a Meeting with the Taranaki natives, at which they unanimously agreed to dispose of the said land,- it may be unnecessary for me, at present, to enter into the various details respecting the purchase; as the vessel sails early in the morning; but shall briefly confine myself to the principal circumstances connected with it; and shall despatch a Policeman with the further details and a copy of the Deed, direct to Auckland; and merely forward this hurried communication, in case Your Excellency may have left there for the Southern settlements. After a careful enquiry amongst the natives, I have ascertained that the Taranaki natives are the principal and only claimants to the land; and that the Puketapu natives,- who have for the last seven years, cultivated there, have done so only by sufferance; their right never being acknowledged by the owners of the land. [unsigned copy.] been customary in such cases. The day after this took place, the Rev. H. Turton, (Wesleyan Missionary), who happened to be at the Waitara, wrote a note to Taonui, advising him not to notice the insult; as the offender had been a captive of his, and unworthy of his notice; the rest of the natives having disapproved of his conduct. On my return from my journey in the interior, I learnt the circumstances from Te Kuri, Taonui's son; who told me that he had that day sent the intelligence to his Father, regretting he had not done so sooner; that I might, whilst at his place, have induced him to pass the matter over quietly, stating he himself had written him to ask for payment, instead of the usual revenge. This it appears Taonui agreed to, by making a most exhorbitant requisition for payment, from all the Europeans and natives of this place, as per enclosed translation of a letter from his son; to which I replied that Europeans could not be included in their demand; as they were not concerned in their customs; at the same time regretting the offence the natives had given by cursing Taonui. The first intimation we received of the Tapu, or the road being Tapu, was from Mr. Thatcher; who, with a Mail Carrier and native, were on their way to Auckland, and compelled to return, having been told by the natives they met, if they went any further they would be robbed, and otherways end angered by the natives of Mokau; who were strictly observing Taonui's orders not to allow any person to pass, until the demands in his letter were complied with. On hearing from Mr. Thatcher that he was not allowed to proceed on his journey, I determined on accompanying him, to endeavour to get him and the Mail Carrier, at least, forwarded,; telling the natives of Waitara my intentions; which induced them to accompany me, and provide some articles to present to Taonui, - consisting of money, guns, clothing and various other articles. We left here on Monday the 19th. of January; and got to Mimi River; where the Tapu was in force. Here we met Waitara, a Mokau Chief; with whom, and all the natives at his place, I had a long conversation; pointing out to them the impropriety of prohibiting Europeans from pursuing their journeys; as they were not implicated in anything that could offend them; and ought not to suffer for a custom they were totally unacquainted with. Waitara at once agreed to the Europeans passing; confining his objection to the Waitara natives who accompanied us; which he afterwards withdrew, on finding they brought goods for Taonui; and we all reached Mokau without interruption; Mr. Thatcher and the New Plymouth messenger continuing their journey to Auckland. The goods for Taonui, who lived 130 miles in the interior, were left at Mokau to be forwarded with a letter from me to his son, advising the road not to be Tapu against Europeans. The articles not being considered sufficient by the old Chief, or his son, the Tapu was again enforced; and a letter sent here by the latter, purposing to be in answer to those written by the Rev. H. Turton and myself; informing us that he would return all the goods from the Waitara natives, (which he has not as yet done); Wednesday night, September 1st. 1847. My dear Sir, The signing of the Deed was finished late this evening; after which the natives had some flour and sugar, and the cask of tobacco they requested. The price of it is about £25; which sum is due to Mr. Brown; and you will perhaps have the kindness to include that amount in the money you bring in for the natives in the morning. Several of the houses at Omata have been burnt down by a native named Tamihana, who is whaling for Mr. Brown. After you left, I've had a settling down from Pape and some of the Taranaki natives, respecting the land he has been advancing a claim to at Ngamotu; but both he and William Kamaho fully acknowledge the right of the Taranaki people to dispose of the land as shewn, and described to them on the plan of the block. I have all the men in Barracks; and shall sleep here also in case the Puketapus pay us a sly visit during the night. I remain Yours very truly (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- Capt. H. King R.N. Brooklands. Taranaki New Plymouth. September 2nd. 1847. Sir, I have the honor to enclose a copy of a letter which I have received from Mr. Cooke, of the Hua, complaining of an aggression by the Puketapus on a portion of his section, which he was this year induced to cultivate, at the request of a native named Etuki. Te Huia, a brother of Etuki's, who is complained of as being the principal ringleader in this instance, and who received payment for land from the New Zealand Company, has generally taken a prominent part in annoying the settlers in that neighbourhood; and assigns, as his reason, which is frequently used by unprincipled natives, that the "utu" formerly received for the land, is now "pirau" or decayed; and that as the land never decays, he requires further remuneration before relin-quishing his claim in favour of Mr. Cooke. I must, however, observe that the natives offered to sell the land in question before they commenced planting on it; but as their claim was both small and objectionable, I found it would be impossible to treat with them unless the majority of the tribe agreed to the disposal of a larger tract of country. I have the honor to remain Sir Your most obedient servt. (Signed) Donald McLean. Inspector of Police. Taranaki New Plymouth. Sept. 13th. 1847. Sir, In reply to your letter of the 9th, inst., in reference to the selection and survey of land within the Block recently acquired from the natives under Governor Grey's instructions, between the Sugar Loaves and the Wai--wakaio river, I have the honor to inform you that the natives have not as yet signed a Deed for the same; nor have they accepted payment of the first instalment of the purchase money. Under these circumstances, any act on my part whereby the Government would be pledged to afford the settlers secure possession of the lands alluded to would be premature. At the same time, I do not apprehend that the natives will object to the location of settlers on such portions of the block as will not interfere with their Reserves and cultivations. The former will be distinctly shewn on a map with which you will shortly be furnished; and on which you will perceive that there are two sections chosen by absentees, intersecting the Waiwakaio Reserve (marked No. 3 on the plan); the selection of which I should wish you to postpone till I am instructed by His Excellency as to the disposal of them. As there are several native clearings and plantations interspersed throughout the Block,- it would be advisable that the persons selecting should understand that a term of one or two years, as the case may require, will be allowed to the natives for their final removal; by which they will have time to establish themselves on their permanent reserves. I believe I shall be acting in accordance with His Excellency's wishes by giving any assistance on the part of the Government, that will facilitate the occupation of land by the settlers; and shall consult with the Resident Magistrate about laying out more sections beyond the surveyed limits of the Company, within the present Block; when the same are required for the use and actual occupation of settlers. I am, etc. etc. etc. (Signed) Donald McLean. Inspector of Police. To:- F.D. Bell Esq. and prevent any further recourse on the road to Mokau, as the land was his, and entirely under his control. From the very unfriendly and independent tone of his letter, I have discontinued any further correspondence with this Chief; till Your Excellency became fully aware of the whole merits of the case. On the return of the Mail Carrier from Auckland, he was detained two days on the North side of the Mokau River; where a shirt and handkerchief were forcibly taken from him, for not observing the Tapu. Being apprehensive of this detention, I wrote to Waitara, a Chief of considerable influence at Mokau, requesting him to use his exertions in passing all travellers; and have pleasure in observing to Your Excellency that this Chief, on receipt of the letter, immediately went with his followers a distance of 25 miles, to meet the messenger; and though he met with considerable opposition from Taonui's son, who came to guard the road at Mokau, he still persevered in seeing him beyond the Tapu in safety. From the anxiety that prevailed respecting the non-arrival of the Mail Carrier, by the advice of Capt. King, and for the satisfaction of the settlers generally, accompanied by Mr. Webster, one of the Magistrates, and Postmaster, we went to meet him; but were glad to find, that through Waitara's exertions, he was within a day's journey of this place, accompanied by one of his natives to guard against interruptions on the road; who brought a letter expressing his disapproval of the continuance of the Tapu; and recommending me to be careful in advising both natives and Europeans against passing that way in future. As an acknowledgement of Waitara's good behaviour, I sent him a hlanket and some tobacco, with the enclosed copy of a letter, thanking him for his assistance. (Signed) Donald McLean. Protector of Aborigines. Western District. . Go my letter to the McLean and the Turton, Friends, wishing you both well. These are my words to you respecting my curse, the straight way respecting my curse is that you all pay for it. The Europeans and all the natives that you may remain in quietness at your places. Friends, this is my word to you all. Let me have quantities of goods, of money, of cattle, of Greenstone, of guns, of blankets also. This will be right for all of us. Friends, let your consent to my words. Taonui has left all the thoughts to me on this subject. I have given my thoughts to the McLean; and they are the good thoughts for all of us. Friends, be attentive to my words. Give great payment for my curse. It has never been done before. Taonui has never been cursed by any other tribes. ''Pihi'' and ''Rehu'' (Waikato Chiefs) are the only ones that have been cursed; but this is the first time for Taonui. Therefore I give my words to you all. I am desirous to adopt the right ways of the Europeans. Some time past we have had bad ways. Now we have the good ones of the Europeans. These are all my words to you, from your loving friend, (Signed) Te Kuri. Taranaki. New Plymouth. 13th. September 1847. Sir, I have the honour to acquaint you that I find several of the settlers are anxious to select land in the Block which has been recently acquired from the Taranaki natives, as reported in my letter No. 47/10 of this day's date. I am therefore anxious to know if His Excellency the Governor wishes me to place it at the disposal of the Company's Agent, or whether he may instruct me to do so under any particular conditions. I have the honour to remain etc., etc., etc., (Signed) Donald McLean. Inspector of Police. To:- The Honourable The Colonial Secretary. . WANGANUI WAR. The principal "Taki" or reason assigned by the natives, for the outrage on the Gilfillan family, - that led to this War, - was owing to an elderly man named Apu-rona Ngarangi Kawetua being accidentally shot under the eye, by a pistol ball; when leaving a house where some of the Military Officers lived, and where he had been, to receive payment for house-building, from a young mid-shipman of the "Calliope", to whom the pistol belonged; which it appears had been lying on the midshipman's bed, when the curiosity of the native led him to request a sight of it from the midshipman; and after satisfying his curiosity, he left the house; and the pistol being loaded, went off, and inflicted the wound that has led to the subsequent disasters. The native was immediately placed in charge of the Surgeon, and remained there for some time. On being asked how the wound was inflicted, he admitted that it was entirely accidental; and satisfied the Putiki natives to that effect; who partook of the excitement that drawing of blood naturally produces amongst them; and made a demand for the young midshipman as "utu" or payment for the Maori. Immediately, however, that the Putiki natives were satisfied of the accidental and entirely unintentional occurrence, they made no further noise on the subject. But some of the relatives, and especially a grand-son of the shot native, - who exclaimed, on seeing him, - "Grand-father is gone. I have no grandfather to replace him". Etuka, (who was hung), intervened, and intended to have blood for blood; and accordingly went to the house of Gilfillan; where the dreadful and alarming tragedy of savage revenge, was performed, by the murder of Mrs. Gilfillan and her three children. It appeared that Etuka and Wawiri were the only two out of 6 that contemplated this murder; and on arriving at the house, they asked for a firestick; which was handed to them by Mr. Gilfillan; who, after hearing and fearing their threats, and appearance, went off, it is said, at the instigation of his wife, to save himself; as he was supposed to be the only life they would sacrifice; and he accordingly made his escape to the town; and left his family to meet their miserable and cruel end, that might have been averted had he shewn some courage and determination to resist them. The murderers made their escape, some distance up the river, after they had pursued Gilfillan, till they nearly reached the town; when the alarm was sounded to the Troops about midnight; the Officer of whom, Capt. Large, went to the Putiki Pah, to which the murderers belonged; and immediately several of their party, - amongst whom were Patapa, Hone Wiremu, Rihimona, Patene Ropata, Toa and Te Hareware, went in pursuit of the murderers; and overtook them about 12, of the next morning, brought them back to the town, and delivered them bound up in flax, to the Commanding Officer, - one of the murderers excepted, who did join the others in their retreat, and consequently escaped, but is not charged with assisting in the murder. The willingness and alacrity with which the above-named natives apprehended the murderers, is worthy of consideration; and shews how readily they assented to the fate of members of their own tribe, when acting against the laws of natives. But still they are loaded with various reproaches, from being Missionaries, and perhaps not so favourable to the more vicious and ill-disguised principles of our own countrymen. The principal division of the Putiki tribe took part in the war; but the principal Chiefs co-operated throughout, and gave evidence that was called for, to the Troops. Pehi Turoa took part in the war; and was formidable, from his hereditary influence, in augmenting the numbers that joined against the Troops; principally from Etuka, (who was hung) being a relative of his, and partly of the Patutokotoko tribe, to which his father belonged. From this trifling incidence, occasioned by a pistol going off, hostilities at Wanganui commenced. Troops and reinforcements were arriving from both parties, native and European. A town and its respectable settlers have been ruined and burnt out of house and home. The place is abandoned; except as a Military Station; and the results of our engagements have not yet, as yet, impressed the natives with any superiority of English warfare, to subdue and control them. One Chief, only, Maketu, has been shot; and a few natives; but even this has been accomplished at an inconsiderable cost to the British Crown. The result of the War, as far as it has yet proceeded, - September 25th. 1847, - is fully recorded in the public despatches; and the Memo. I have now taken is for future reference, as to the origin and cause that brought it about; which has been repeated to me by a trustworthy young native, Pehi, who was an eye-witness to some of the proceedings, and conversant with the several circumstances attending them. (Signed) Donald McLean. (undated copy) Dear Dr. Wilson, As the Wanganui mail left before I returned from the Coast, I am afforded an opportunity of writing you sooner by a Mr. Devinish, who is going to the Huruhi, for some cattle that he has been obliged to leave there, in consequence of old Rangi's determination to assume the right of proprietorship to the roads; through which, however, it appears his clemency periodically admits of persons occasionally visiting Wellington. It is a pity that the old rebel does not employ his own time, and that of his followers, in improving the road, so as to make it worth his while to erect a turn-pike tote, and exact a negrohead - or some other equivalent - for every passenger, with a trifle extra for the fat cattle required for the Troops; as they appear to be above paying - although not above using your pigs and goats at Wanganui; and for which I believe, from what I have quietly heard, they will endeavour to avoid a lady's expostulations in future, by avoiding a repetition of such conduct. Since I returned from the Coast the weather has been so wet that I have not been able to do anything to your garden. If it improves, to-morrow will be the first commencement of putting in some onion seeds; and I shall also endeavour to get as many carrots sown as I can, as they will be found excellent as vegetables, or for keeping pigs, or using in the house. If I cannot secure the different kinds of seed necessary for the garden, I expect to have enough in my own to serve us both. What quantity of potatoes would you advise me to plant for you before you come up? You will be a little surprised when I tell you that the brewer owning the sow you admired so much, asked £20 for her; and considering the man was only joking, I thought of offering him what I considered the value, about 18/- or £1; but finding he was really in earnest, I at once declined gratifying your pigbreeding propensities at such an extravagant cost. Your Auckland letter was duly forwarded by the Mail; and Capt. King only wants to hear from you, or perhaps he may wait till he sees you, to forward an application that you should have the Hospital; and this we can have now no hesitation in doing, on Miller's account, as he intends leaving the place, to go Home by the first vessel. He applied to me this forenoon, to purchase his house and land; and I shall accordingly see whether it is worth securing, in case our worthy friend, the Capt., may come up and require a temporary place till he looks round him. The house is tolerably comfortable, and I suppose the price will not exceed £10 or £15. This place is much the same as when you were here, excepting that a few labourers have left, owing to the present high rate of wages at Auckland, which will soon be moderated by the influx of pensioners. But the really sensible settlers feel perfectly satisfied; and our grumblers, of which there are is seldom a scarcity in an English community, consist principally of those who are either embarked in some commercial or speculative pursuit, in which they cannot conceive it is to their advantage to encourage the honest and industrious producer. But the motives of this class are becoming so obvious to all, excepting a simple class of small farmers, that the evil will soon effectually work its own cure. We have found a splendid line of road to the new Block, and there are plenty of men now busily engaged in cutting it, - Law acting as overseer. What is your opinion of the Scotsman notice of the compensation of £600,000, to the New Zealand settlers? Is it thrown out as a feeler; or can it be relied on? It would be a very great benefit to the real suffering ones, - especially Wanganui and the Bay of Islands settlers. For my own part, I do not feel quite altogether sanguine on the subject, from the manner in which Gladstone viewed the claims of the unfortunate sufferers of that place. I suppose it will not be presumed that the former classes of labourers, who have so much improved in circumstances, and form the great bulk of the population, are to participate in this grant. Sir Walter Scott box is carefully locked up in a drawer; and only shews when particular parties dine here, to give the table quite an aristocratic air; and from the duly merited esteem in which the name of its original possessor is held, not only by our artistic people, but by all who have been entertained by his unequalled works. I must again return you my best thanks for the sacrifice you must have made in bequeathing it to me. I am in daily expectation of your goods arriving, and have a place ready prepared for them. Do not forget to give me timely warning when Mrs. Wilson is to leave, the day she is to remain at Waimate, that I may go to meet her, as we appointed; and help her over the stony part of the road. (unsigned copy.) Friend, the Kuri, With best wishes to you and your wife, Rangihuia, who are living at your distant residence of Motu-Karumu. Your letter to the Turton and myself has come to hand, respecting your Father's curse. It is true, I believe the aged man has not been hitherto cursed. It was wrong and thoughtless to have done so towards a Chief for whom there ought to have been greater respect. It cannot be now helped; as the thoughts of the man that did so are little thoughts. Let yours, however, be good and wise, as those of a greater mind. My ideas are that he who does an injury should be alone responsible. At the same time, I will advise the natives of this place to arrange the matter that they may live peaceably, and shew their good disposition towards you and your Father. But as they have not large articles of property, they cannot give any. The Europeans have not injured you. Their dispositions are those of friendship towards you and your Father, as well as to all of the people of Waikato, from end to end. You are all a people that I have a regard for; and had you been wronged in any way by Europeans, it would be my duty to have spoken to them to make right the difference. But this has not been so. Neither shall I say a word to them respecting it; but will recommend the natives to both of you, and hope friendship may dwell amongst all of us. From your friend, (Signed) McLean. Taranaki. 9th. October 1847. Sir, I beg to inform you that I have this day received the seven skins of parchment advised by your letter No. 28 of the 30th, May, and alluded to in your subsequent communication No. 44 of the 3rd. August, as having been forwarded to Wellington by H.M.Ship "Inflexible" on the 20th of May last. I have etc., etc., etc., (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- The Honourable The Colonial Secretary. Tuesday, 12th. October 1847. Carrington called on me this morning, to request I should see Erangi, who wished to speak to me respecting the payment he was to receive, and asked for three bags of £50 of the next year's payment being promised to him in consideration of his claim. After some conversation he moderated his claim, by only asking two bags, which Capt. King and myself agreed to give him; but his son urged a claim for the £50; which I told him could not be granted, except by holding a public meeting of the natives, - which was agreed on, for Friday next. The division amongst the natives themselves is going on most satisfactorily here, there being no complaints; and the natives appear to fully understand all that has been done with reference to the land, most clearly and distinctly. Some flour and sugar has been supplied today, as well as potatoes. Honi Ropiha, and indeed Poharama and all the Chiefs, have behaved well, and very straight-forwardly on this occasion. Kanawa's letter, respecting Rauparaha, causes some sensation amongst natives and Europeans. Dined with Bell at 7 p.m. afterwards went home with Webster. The natives perfectly quiet, and apparently satisfied with the division of the compensation money. Had a long conversation in my room this morning, on the folly of their being opposed to amicable arrangements with the Europeans. Saw Bell about the land for the Whalers at Koturoa; replied to a letter from Robert Sinclair, on the subject. Paid Brown on account of Black, £10. Sent Carrington to enquire what land some of the Moturoa natives wanted, near Matche's section. It appears to be a cultivation on a section of Captain's; which I have granted them for two years, - provided they fell no timber, and confine themselves to their present cultivations. Arranged to let Brown have the large mare's foal, at a price to be hereafter fixed. Nothing particular transpired. Received a letter from Mr. Bell, in reference to transfer of the recent purchase to the Government. The road party getting on satisfactorily. Forwarded a reply to Mr. Bell's letter. Erangi signed the Deed of Conveyance to the Government for the Ngamotu purchase, at my house; also his son, and a relative, E Harry, Pipeka Waka's wife, Kereopa, and another Taranaki native present. Paid him two Bags £20 in cash in presence of Capt. King. (unsigned copy.) Taranaki. New Plymouth. 9th. October 1847. Sir, I beg to acknowledge the receipt of your letter No. 52 of the 20th. ulto., conveying His Excellency the Governor's authority for continuing the employment from the commencement of the current financial year, on the supplementary establishment of this Department, the additional number of men authorised by your letter to the Police Magistrate of the 5th, December 1846. With reference to the discharge of the extra number of men alluded to in your letter, I would respectfully observe that I do not consider it would be expedient at present to dispense with their services, as the number is already so limited as to be barely able to perform the ordinary Police duties that are required at the settlement as well as amongst the large and increasing native population of this District. I have etc., (Signed) Donald McLean, Inspector of Police. To The Honourable The Colonial Secretary. Taranaki, New Plymouth. 16th. October 1847. Sir, I have the honour to inform you that the fines which have been inflicted and recorded by me from members of the Police Force at this settlement, from the date of enrollment on the eighteenth of June 1846 to the eighteenth of June 1847 amount to thirteen pounds five shillings and sixpence; which sum, I have, in compliance with your letter No. 98 of the thirteenth of October last, placed to a good conduct fund; and shall take an early opportunity of submitting to you for the information of His Excellency, the sums which I have placed opposite the respective names of the non-commissioned officers and men, who have, from their faithful attention to duty, merited the indulgence and consideration of His Excellency in the distribution of the above amount; and should wish to be informed if this is the course I am to pursue in accordance with the regulations notified in your communication above alluded to. I have etc., etc., etc., (Signed) Donald McLean. Inspector of Police. To The Honourable The Colonial Secretary. (undated copy) My dear Mrs, Bolland, May I beg your acceptance of the few oranges which I send down by William? Yours sincerely (Signed) Don. Mclean, Friday evening. My dear Mrs. Bolland, I am sorry you should take the slightest notice of the trifles I may have an occasional opportunity of sending, to afford you a change at the Parsonage, - independent of any consideration for yourself or your sister, - more, a great deal more kindness than it may ever be in my power to shew, is due to the memory of your esteemed husband; whose absence, from various circumstances mingled with some degree of pleasure and grief, daily recall painful reflections on the loss of an estimable and unchangeable friend. I remain my dear Mrs. Bolland Yours sincerely [Signed] Donald McLean, Thursday evening October 27th. 1847. [undated copy.] Dear Dr. Wilson, I am determined not to lose an opportunity of writing you by this mail, in case you may be still at Wanganui, when it arrives, although I am in hopes you and Mrs. Wilson are, by this time, safely embarked on your New Plymouth voyage. Indeed, I so fully expected you, with the late favourable winds, that I had the men already engaged, and Capt. King's carts bespoke, to move you out at once, and place Mrs. Wilson in possession of my little cottage, till you have time to look round you; and I am certain if we had you once here, the Rheumatism would soon be cured in this good weather, by a little exercise in your garden; where I have, at present, a man employed planting potatoes, who tells me the land is so rich that it would be needless to manure it this year. Unfortunately the bank in which I calculated to have the seeds, was sown with wheat; and the party from whom I made the purchase, has allowed me the crop of the acre joined to my own land, which I am to retain, I am therefore tilling a portion of that acre for your garden, and intend to have a sufficiency of vegetables in my own, to make up for any you Friend, the Kuri, With best wishes to you and your wife, Rangihuia, who are living at your distant residence of Motu-Karumu. Your letter to the Turton and myself has come to hand, respecting your Father's curse. It is true, I believe the aged man has not been hitherto cursed. It was wrong and thoughtless to have done so towards a Chief for whom there ought to have been greater respect. It cannot be now helped; as the thoughts of the man that did so are little thoughts. Let yours, however, be good and wise, as those of a greater mind. My ideas are that he who does an injury should be alone responsible. At the same time, I will advise the natives of this place to arrange the matter that they may live peaceably, and shew their good disposition towards you and your Father. But as they have not large articles of property, they cannot give any. The Europeans have not injured you. Their dispositions are those of friendship towards you and your Father, as well as to all of the people of Waikato, from end to end. You are all a people that I have a regard for; and had you been wronged in any way by Europeans, it would be my duty to have spoken to them to make right the difference. But this has not been so. Neither shall I say a word to them respecting it; but will recommend the natives to both of you, and hope friendship may dwell amongst all of us. From your friend, (Signed) McLean. . . Ngamotu. January 22 1846. Friend, the Kuri, Wishing you and your Father, who live at the Paripari and Motukarumu well. Friend, the doings of your own man of little thought are bad to curse his Chief, not remembering that through Taonui's kindness, he has been safely returned to his land, and now giving trouble. By our customs, the party who commits an offence is alone answerable for it. The people generally, had nothing to do with this. When your letter reached the Turton and myself, we spoke to the Waitara natives, who collected money for you, which is our greatest treasure. Yours is Greenstone; and ours is what you are now receiving. There are eight pounds in money, and some shillings, with pieces of greenstone, clothing, guns, and various other things; as you will see when they reach you. That is all from this poor man. What more can he send? It is not as if he had sold land. Then he might have quantities of goods, horses, and other articles. This is not so. He has not got anything. Let not any of you suppose that these things that are sent you are from the Europeans. No,- they are their own. All have done was the Turton and myself having talked to them. This is another word from me to yourself and your Father. Let not Tapu the road against Europeans. This is a strange practice. Rather, let the Europeans go and come as they wish; as they have had nothing to do with the matter; and your customs have existed amongst yourselves even before we landed here. I should rather think that Taonui ought to seek after Chieftainlike conduct; that his thoughts be great and good, doing kindness to all may be short of. I am also in treaty with Dr. Miller for his house and land, if I can get a bargain for it. It may come in well for our old friend the Captain, to save the expense of building in his first outset, should he be determined on coming here. Miller leaves here for Auckland in a few days, as he has not succeeded in obtaining any appointment. I do not know what tidings your official letter may contain, but there can be nothing in the way of your getting the Hospital, if Capt. Grey has not promised it to McShane of Nelson. The settlement has never been so tranquil as as present. I have completed the purchase of 10,000 more acres, since you left; and there is a perfect landchoosing mania in the place, for the last fortnight; and we are in the best imaginable spirist as to our future prospects, and have good reasons for expecting that as we are now acquiring plenty of land, and friendly with the natives, that our settlement will take a prominent lead, as the most substantial and prosperous in the Island. It may, however, be three years before the current turns in our favour; but even now many of the labourers who left for Wellington and Adelaide are anxious to return. When you were here I was diffident in giving a decided opinion in favour of the place. Matters have since brightened up considerably, and I can, with safety, say more in favour of it, than I would have ventured when you were here. Bell has received instructions to facilitate any of the Wanganui settlers in exchanging their land here, so there can be no further obstacle on that head. There is a Meeting to-night to take the claims against the Company into consideration. Capt. King is most anxours that you should take a lead in such matters; and Mrs. King is delighted at the idea of Mrs. Wilson, and probably Mrs, Campbell, becoming neighbours. [unsigned copy.] (undated copy.) Dear Mrs. Bolland I am sure you will think me most remiss in not furnishing an account of your little bills before this time, nor have I any apology to offer; only I considered there was no particular hurry. I now send you down a semo, of the small bills paid by me, with the receipts of the several parties, as I have obtained them, which you will perhaps have the goodness to look over with your sister, to see if the different sums correspond with the account kept by her. If not, we may correct any errors by comparing accounts, when I return in the course of a few days, from Waitara. The receipted bills amount to £17.12.10, and the orders to £10.4.5, having charged £4 for Mr. Cotton's enclosure, and credited the 15/- Miss Wright gave me on account. There is still, as you will perceive, a balance of £5.6.9 in my charge, that I shall claim the pleasure of paying for you, as usual, or until you are established in your new house; and if there is anything that I can do for you before leaving for Waitara, I need not say I shall be most happy to give it my best attention. (unsigned copy.) (undated copy.) My dear Sir, I have just returned from the Waitara, where I have been engaged with a surveyor for the last week, in making preliminary arrangements with the natives for the purchase of a portion of that district; and as the mail leaves this evening, I shall not have time to give an Official Report of my proceedings, which I must take the first opportunity of forwarding. From the numerous native claimants on that river, and the general indisposition to part with their land, it will be necessary to examine the individual claims of the natives, - a work of some time, - before a general arrangement can be concluded. But the subject is of great importance to the district, and claims my utmost attention; and I trust to be able to acquire some of it on satisfactory conditions. In order to keep those of the natives who are favourable to the sale of the land, in countenance, I have stationed two policemen there, who will be in readiness to assist in cutting the lines when I have to lay out the Native Reserves. The fact of having commenced operations there, and having men on the spot, will induce several of the most obstinate to yield to our terms. The settlers had, for some time, an objection to avail themselves of the lands that have been purchased; considering it inferior in quality to that we cannot so readily acquire; but I am glad that this prejudice is generally becoming exploded, and that they appear to consider the land as it becomes opened up, and better known, to exceed their expectations. All who are in want of land have now every facility of choosing; and several are doing so. Indeed, I confess I am very glad to see them do so, as they are opening up the forest country in the rear of the town, where they can have peaceable occupation of their sections; and, from being partially concentrated in the neighbourhood of a friendly tribe, they are less likely to embarrass the Government or the settlers in difficulties that would otherwise result from being scattered over the face of a country, where the natives are in some degree, disaffected. (unsigned copy.) Taranaki, New Plymouth November 10th, 1847. Sir I have received your letter of this day's date, requesting my opinion as to the manner in which you acquitted yourself in the performance of the duties entrusted to you, during the time you served in the Armed Police Force at this settlement. In reply I have pleasure in being able to state that I have invariably found you most attentive and careful in carrying out the several orders you received; and from the efficient manner in which you fulfilled your duties, and reported your several proceedings, I have been frequently induced to place the men at the home station under your charge, when Mr. Halse and myself have been absent from the settlement. I hear that you are likely to take, your departure from here in a few days, in the hope of embarking in some occupation that may further your prospects. In such case, I may add that I shall at all times feel interested in hearing that you are attended with success in your undertakings. I remain Sir Your most obedient servant (Signed) Donald McLean Inspector of Police To:- Harcourt Aubry Esq. New Plymouth. (undated copy.) My dear Mrs. Bolland, I suppose the invitation from Mr. Burt, of yesterday evening, is a postponement of yours of Friday, --- which I had the pleasure of accepting; and I am sorry, from a previous engagement, which I forgot when Stephen was here, that I shall not be able to go down on Tuesday. (unsigned copy.) Monday evening, November 15th. 1847 My dear Sir, I received your message yesterday evening, by Stephen Foreman, and I should be most happy to dine with you at the Parsonage on Tuesday, if I had not made a previous appointment for that day. I am my dear Sir Yours very truly (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- Rev. C. Burt The Parsonage. N.B. The same evening dined at Parsonage, and spent the evening there, very pleasantly, with Mrs. Bolland and Mr. Burt. Monday 22nd. November 1847 My dear Dr. Wilson, Mr. Gregor arrived on Saturday afternoon, and brought both your letters of the 9th. and 12th. insts. Hulke came in a few hours afterwards, and I believe he is already occupied with his Mill work. Law proceeds to meet you with the grey nag to-morrow morning, and is particularly instructed not to forget the saddle bags. You do not mention how Mrs. Wilson is provided with a side-saddle; and I am undecided which to send. It is therefore my impression that either she or Mrs. Campbell must have one. Mrs. Wilson has quite anticipated me in the selection of a site for the house; and fixes it by your sketch within a few feet of the best position on the section; and exactly where the house formerly stood; and although it does not command such a good view as the hill, it will be more convenient and comfortable. The little hill has attractions in a place so wonderfully level. I have often looked and admired it as the morning sun shines. But I fear the little hill is rather exposed to the prevailing South-Westers. However, as I Europeans; that his name may be known throughout the land. We regard him and all persons who are well-behaved; and we believe him to be well-disposed. This is all, my Friend. Wishing you and your wife, Rangihuia, may live in peace and love, searching after what is right, to the end of your lives. From your Friend, (Signed) McLean. Copy. Translation. Motu-Karumu. February 4th. 1845. Friends, Let my letter go to the McLean and the Turton. This is in answer to all your letters. Friends, my thoughts are wrong about my letter. You have turned aside the intentions of it. Friends, the goods will be returned to you. Your natives say that we are anxious for goods. Therefore I return them. Friend Turton, it was not me that wrote first. It was you that wrote to me. Therefore I wrote to you both. Friends, I am determined about the road. No person shall pass; nor let any man come; as the road is mine; because my words to you have not been agreed to. Friends, this is an end of our talk. This is my second letter to you. You have sent me many; you have sent me six. Friends, I have arrived at Mokau. I have come to see the parties who are driving pigs here. I will not let any person pass your way. I shall be hard about the road; as you have all not agreed to my proposals. (Signed) From Te Kuri. P.S. These goods have been given by the Ngatiawas for no good intentions. (Signed) Te Kuri. Ngamotu. February 11th. 1848. Friend Waitara, With you rest the right thoughts reapecting the road; with the chief relative of the great men of Waikato. You will consider and look after all Europeans and people who come and go; as you and Tikaokao understand proper thoughts. Will you speak to the Kaka; as both he and the Kaharoa were well disposed when I was there with them. Perhaps they are the same now; but this you, my friend, can ascertain. The Kuri is losing his good thoughts, and getting wrong. I will not write him; as with you and the people along the road rest the right thoughts respecting it. From your Friend, (Signed) McLean. Friend McLean, Great is my regard for you. I am sorry that my words to you respecting the road are not adhered to. Your thoughts were straight; but still the road continues hard. Let you therefore be very thoughtful in preventing natives or Europeans from passing either up or down; as the Kuri intends to be very stubborn about the road; and is now stopping at Mokau. (Signed) from Waitara and Tikaokao. Ngamotu. 19th. February 1846. Friend Waitara, With best wishes to you always advocate that the ladies should take a pert in the architectural construction and internal arrangements of a house, --- from the blunders we are almost invariably apt to make if left to ourselves in these matters. I should be inclined to indulge Mrs. Wilson a little further by requesting that she determines in person where the house is to stand; or at any rate that she has the casting vote, if you and I differ in opinion on the subject. The barn across the glen is in good order, with door-look and key. It contains the ploughs and iron work. The boxes are in William's big room. I must endeavour to get puriri or iron-wood, so as to be durable. These, Capt. King will allow me to take from his section. I should be delighted to see the Capt. coming up with you to see the place, as I am sure it would suit Mrs. Campbell so well. I must write to him this time. He will think it most remiss my not having previously done so. Two of your Independants have been sent here; but your article on Missions has not yet appeared. That on shoe making has induced me to order a pair in the old homely style. Pehi Turoa, whose letter you enclosed, is a strange composition; easily led away, and still possesses some very good qualities. I am glad you have sent the letter, and intelligence from Mr. Woon; in all of which I feel much interested. (undated copy) My dear Cameron, I am sure you will think it strange I have not before acknowledged your last letter respecting the Station. The reason was that I fully expected His Excellency would have been here before this, when I intended to bring your case under his notice, and afterwards communicated the result in this. However, I am as yet disappointed, and must therefore leave you to the old plan of writing on the subject, --- the writing of which simply and briefly stating your case. For instance, having been obliged during the recent war at Wanganui to remove my cattle to a place of safety; here would follow the Station you occupy; terms you are on with the natives; how, under the various circumstances you would be permitted to occupy the place; if permitted to pay rent without interference of the Government, etc. etc. etc. No one can better inform you as to the form than the Captain himself, who, I hear, is along with you at Ihupuku; where I hope to hear you are still continuing on good terms with the natives. Do not forget to write me; and believe me to remain, my dear Cameron, Sincerely yours (signed) Don. McLean. (undated copy) Dear Capt. Campbell, I am delighted to hear there is a chance of your riding round to see Taranaki with Dr. Wilson; and although you will think me most remiss in not writing you before now, I am sure you will excuse my not prolonging this letter, when in daily expectation of seeing you. Our settlement is at present in a very quiet and prosperous state. The settlers are moving out to their country land, and roads are being opened, that explore a considerable tract of fertile country. One or two good settlers are expected from Wellington; and there is a fair reason to hope that our settlement will become in a few years a most prosperous one. (unsigned copy.) Te Henui November 30th. 1847 My dear Sir, I shall furnish you with a Report on the merits of Rangihaemata's claim, - referred to you by Mr. Secretary Symonds; if I can only ascertain without visiting Hauranga, where the native who must be an absentee, resides; which information is not given either in the letter or translation. The only letters I have received by this mail are in reference to the Police authorising the construction of the road; and conveying the Governor's approval of the late purchases, - a formal transfer of which may be made to the Company; unless, however, the necessity of doing so is obviated by the recent arrangements with the Home Government. Dr. Sinolair alludes to your stationery as being ready to send by the first opportunity, which he supposes will be the "Victoria". But there is no certainty when she may sail for this place. They are busily engaged locating the pensioners that have arrived in three vessels from England. Auckland is steadily going on increasing its trade revenue and population. There is little else in the note, except that the Governor has been detained by one cause after another, much longer than he expected, in paying us a visit. I send you the reading of three papers which Gillingham sent to you. I remain my dear Sir yours very truly (Signed) Don. McLean. Tuesday evening. P.S. The cheese you were kind enough to purchase is very good. As I shall have the pleasure, by Mr. King's invitation, of dining with you at 4 o'clock to-morrow, I will then have an opportunity of communicating any further Auckland news I may hear in the meantime. I remain my dear Sir, Yours very truly (Signed) Donald McLean P.S. A note to Mr. Cutfield about Haenui, and the road, at the same time. (undated copy.) My dear Mrs. Bolland, I should have called in this forenoon, with your Auckland letters, but Mrs. Hoskin had previously applied for them, and probably sent them out before I returned from town. There has been no news of particular interest by this mail, further than the arrival of three ships with pensioners; and three more vessels were expected shortly. The Bishop provided a very excellent entertainment for the pensioners' wives and children at the College. Mrs. Grey and some other ladies were assisting Mrs. Selwyn in the distribution of tea and cakes for them. There is nothing certain as to when the Governor arrives, although he had frequently determined to visit us, he may have more time now the meetings of the present Session of Council are closed. The Brig is likely to be sent round here. [unsigned copy.] Taranaki, New Plymouth October 22nd. 1847 Sir, In obedience to the instructions conveyed in your letter of the 13th. September, I have the honor to inform you that I called on the Puketapu natives to ascertain the reason of a party of them having suddenly appeared with arms in the town on the 30th. of August, with an apparent intention of fomenting a disturbance with the Taranaki natives; and have to report to you, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that the reason assigned for this proceeding was to shew they were not afraid of the Taranaki natives, --- who, they stated, had previously visited this town under arms, and from whom they intended to demand a payment for the pigs killed at Omata, as reported in my letter of the 2nd. of September last. I have, etc. (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- The Honourable, The Colonial Secretary. (undated copy) Sir, I do myself the honor to acquaint you, for the information of His Excellency the Governor, that I have been engaged at the Waitara from the 2nd. to the 8th. inst., in making preliminary arrangements with the natives for the purchase of land in that district. In obtaining information as to the state of their individual claims, and the extent of land in cultivations, and although some opposition is offered by a majority of the natives, to dispose of their land, I have reason to hope that as my operations were not interrupted, that the party who are at present anxious to effect a sale, - some of whom have influence, will gradually obtain accessions to their number, as the principal objection on the part of the majority, to entering into an immediate arrangement, is a fear that their acts may not be confirmed by the absentee claimants at Waikanae; and have succeeded in obtaining considerable information as to the extent of their individual claims and cultivations; and hope that several who now object to the sale of their land, will join those who are favourable to the terms proposed by His Excellency, for the acquisition of land in this district. (unsigned copy.) Taranaki. New Plymouth. 4th. December 1847. Sir, I do myself the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letters numbered and dated, (Nos. 56, 57, 58, 59, 60) the separate contents and replies to which shall receive at an early opportunity my particular consideration and attention. I have etc., etc., etc., (Signed) Donald McLean. Inspector of Police. To:- The Honourable The Colonial Secretary. Taranaki, New Plymouth December 4th. 1847 Sir, I do myself the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication of the 20th, ulto., instructing me that as there are some arrangements in progress of adjustment, between Her Majesty's Government and the New Zealand Company, - the precise nature of which the Governor is not at present acquainted with, - it is expedient that all further arrangements with the natives for the purchase of land should be for the present suspended, and that although His Excellency wishes me to carry these instructions immediately into effect, it must be so managed as not to excite the least apprehension amongst the natives at Taranaki; to effect which it will perhaps be sufficient to state that the Government do not at present desire to purchase any more land in that district. In furtherance of the above instructions, I beg to inform you that all surveying and other operations in progress for the purchase of land, shall be forthwith discontinued; and that every precaution shall be adopted to prevent unnecessary sensation amongst the natives. I have the honor to remain, etc. (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- The Honourable The Colonial Secretary. Taranaki. New Plymouth 4th. December 1847. Sir, I herwith have the honour to forward for approval, the enclosed requisitions, amounting to Three pounds and twopence, for articles for the dept. of Armed Police at this settlements I have etc., etc., etc., (Signed) Donald McLean. Inspector of Police. To The Honourable The Colonial Secretary etc., etc., etc., Taranaki. New Plymouth 14th. December 1847. Sir, Herewith I beg to transmit, for approval, the enclosed requisitions, amounting to Seven pounds, seven shillings, and sixpence halfpenny (£7.7.6 1/2) for food and articles of clothing supplied to the natives, who have been engaged on the Survey at Waitara, and other parts of the district; and have also to enclose requisitions amounting to nineteen shillings(19/-) for iron work and hoes required by the men engaged on the Survey, and road-making. I have the honour to remain Sir etc., etc., etc., (Signed) Donald McLean Inspector of Police. Taranaki 4th. December 1847 My dear Sir, I have been so completely inundated with bands of natives calling on business, from different parts of the district during the day, that I have been obliged to close my Official letters in a more hurried manner than I intended; and one of yours, just received must remain unanswered till the next mail; but its contents respecting formal transfer of land to the Company, and reservations for the natives, shall be immediately attended to. and Tikaokao, who are Chiefs, and listen to what is right. It is good that both of you have persevered in seeing the European who carries the letters, passed on here. If he had been returned from Mokau, all the straight ways we agreed to there a few days ago would have been thrown aside. May you always continue in good works; your younger brother teaching and giving good advice to your people that they may all turn after better ways, and leave off foolishness, of which there is so much amongst the people of Mokau. Perhaps, before long, they will follow what is better. My continued desire is that we all improve, and be of one mind; friendly towards all people; that kindness be shown to Europeans who pass your places; that you prevent your young people from ever using bad words to them. We have heard from Auckland that the Governor is gone to Port Nicholson; and has taken 5 ships with soldiers along with him. It is probable he may be here in two weeks. Then I hope to be able to give you true information respecting your vessel. Friend Waitara, there is some tobacco, and a blanket sent you to keep out the cold; as we are all satisfied with your behaviour towards the Europeans and all the people. From your friend, (Signed) McLean. On receipt of your instructions to discontinue the purchase of land, I was preparing to commence the survey of a portion of the Puketapu country; and had also effected a partial investigation of native claims at Waitara; from whence I expect a body on natives on Monday; who, with other claimants, I must endeavour to reconcile to the present suspension of proceedings. It is fortunate, however, on the part of the settlers, that sufficient land has been obtained to meet their more urgent wants. It may be estimated - subject of course to natives' reserves - that 26,000 acres have been acquired under His Excellency's instructions, and a great portion of the forest, as it becomes occupied, proves to be more accessible and fertile than was for some time anticipated. Indeed, the principal obstacle to its not being more extensively cultivated, arises from the want of labour. But even this is, in some degree remedied by the natives having commenced to engage themselves on reasonable terms, in felling timber; and many of the European labourers who left are now returning. The result of my enquiries amongst the natives, as to the quantity of powder possessed by them, is herewith forwarded, and I am in hopes of being able, at some future time, to furnish officially, details accurately obtained, respecting their ammunition; as I am inclined to think the Puketapus must have more than they admit; and which is probably kept by them at an almost inaccessible Pah, under the lower range of the Taranaki Mountain, where they have frequently resorted to cultivate. In the late disturbances between this tribe and those of Taranaki, they had offers of a reinforcement from natives on the West Coast, who I always supposed, as stated to His Excellency, would form part of their strength in the event of an outbreak; and it is also probable, from the intercourse of the Waitara natives with those of Wanganui, that they would receive assistance from the latter tribe, - a portion of whom, known as the Ngatimarus, 150 in number, facilitated a connection, by residing half way between the rivers; but as my communication is now enlarging with reference to parts of the country, which you can only know by report, I must save you further trouble im perusing what may be of little or no interest to you. (Signed) D. McLean. To:- A, Sinclair Esq P.S. I am glad the stationery is ready to be sent from Auckland. I hope the arms and ammunition will also come by the first opportunity. (Signed) D. McLean. (undated copy.) Sir, I enclose copies of a correspondence which has lately taken place relative to the affairs of the New Zealand Company, which will put you in possession of an arrangement which Her Majesty's Government have thought it advisable to enter into with the association. I also transmit a Bill which will be proposed by Parliament for the more effectually carrying this arrangement into execution, - referring to a Bill that had passed through the Lord's Committee, and was to have been read a third time on the 22nd. July. You will continue to retain in your own hands, the exclusive management of all negotiations with the natives, for the sale of their lands; but when any transactions of this sort are concluded in the Southern Province, the New Zealand Company will provide the means of payment from funds placed at their disposal; and have the disposal of lands co acquired. I have only to add that these arrangements are not to interfere with the operation of any laws which, in accordance with the intention you have expressed you have thought it advisable that the local legislature should pass for the purpose of enabling the natives, under certain restrictions, to sell their own lands. I would copy at greater length from the Despatch, only it detains; and possibly the original will have reached you before this does. All land negotiations have been quietly suspended to await His Excellency's further instructions; when we hope to have the satisfaction of shortly seeing him here. By the Wellington papers received to-day, it appears the new Constitution will come into operation in January next; but, however applicable it may be to the larger settlements, a small community like ours would be much better under the rule of an energetic and concentrated Government then be subject to popular legislative Assemblies, where there is likely to be a great deal of factions party feeling introduced, and for some time nourished; and in the event of any difficulties with the natives, we should feel the absence, in such Societies, of two indespensible ingredients for restoring peace, - which are secrecy and despatch. But, however, I think I must not go too far with a subject, with which I am scarcely sufficiently well acquainted, to hazard an opinion. I have finished a Census and Return of the European population, which I shall furnish to Capt. King at the close of the year, for Official transmission to Auckland. We have numerous cases of aggravated whooping cough, that proves very fatal to the native children; and indeed, it has attacked the old and young of both races indiscriminately; and even some who have taken it in the usual course at Home. The slow fever which I previously notices has almost entirely disappeared. The crops look very healthy, and we look forward to a most propitious harvest; which, if seen by our unfortunate countrymen who are starving at Home, would form a strong inducement to their making this their adopted home. I remain my dear Sir, Yours very truly, (Signed) Donald McLean. Taranaki, New Plymouth, December 14th. 1847 My dear Sir, Nothing has transpired at this settlement with reference to any contemplate movements by the disaffected tribes at Wanganui, against the Europeans; but as the letter herewith sent, appears to be from the Commanding Officer, who urges its being forwarded, it may contain such intelligence, - as probably justifies my facilitating its transmission, or that of any future despatches from Military outposts to Headquarters; especially if an order is received with them, and the mail is not ready to start. Dr. Wilson and family arrived here from Wanganui, overland; which place they left fourteen days ago. They do not report anything indicating a movement on the part of the rebels, but the Friendly natives accompanying them state that they threaten to attack our Putiki allies, when Pehi Turoa returns from an excursion to Taupo, where it is supposed he is endeavouring to obtain a considerable reinforcement. By Dr. Wilson's residing amongst us, we have got a very desirable acquisition to our limited society, and the settlers will be much benefited by his experience in matters connected with farming, to assist him and his family in getting up the Coast, I sent a Policeman and horse to meet him, feeling sure His Excellency would wish me to render any aid of that description that would lie in my power. All land negotiations are for the present suspended, awaiting His Excellency's further instructions, which we may expect will be accompanied by his own presence. Indeed, the people are now in daily expectation of seeing him. The "Ralph Barnel" arrived here from England, via Nelson, on Friday. Her latest dates are the 22nd, July, and I observe in the published correspondence relating to New Zealand, a despatch from Lord Grey to Governor Grey, 19th. June, from which I shall make an extract or two; as it may not have reached Auckland. Sir, "I enclose copies of a correspondence which has lately taken place relative to the affairs of the New Zealand Company, which will put you in possession of an arrangement which Her Majesty's Government have thought it advisable to enter into with that Association. I also transmit a Bill which will be proposed to Parliament, for the more effectually carrying this arrangement into execution. The Bill here referred to had passed through the Lords' Committee, and was to have been read a third time on the 22nd. July." (etc., as in foregoing letter) (Signed) Don. McLean. You will continue to retain in your own hands, the exclusive management of all negotiations with the natives, for the sale of their lands; but when any transactions of this sort are concluded in the Southern Province, the New Zealand Company will provide the means of payment from funds placed at their disposal; and have the disposal of lands co acquired. I have only to add that these arrangements are not to interfere with the operation of any laws which, in accordance with the intention you have expressed you have thought it advisable that the local legislature should pass for the purpose of enabling the natives, under certain restrictions, to sell their own lands. The Inspector is astonished that Mr. Aubry should delay at the Waitara when under special orders to proceed to Auckland with the utmost despatch; and he will assuredly take further notice of this conduct if the greatest exertion is not immediately used by Mr. Aubry to get to Auckland in eight days from the time he received his orders for the journey yesterday morning. The excuse in Mr. Aubry's note just received of being detained by natives cannot be considered; as with, or without, natives, he is to immediately proceed on his journey. Te Henui 11 a.m. Thursday December 16th. 1847. Thursday 21st. December 1847 Dear Capt. King, I send you the map and Deed of the Cattle Station; and you can, if necessary at any time, have reference to my Report to the Colonial Secretary, on the completion of the purchase. Maps of the other Blocks will be placed in your hands for transfer, as soon as possible. Mr. Harris is now working at them, and Carrington is surveying the Reserve in the 12,000 acres. There was an attempt made this forenoon by a Hua native, to rob Dr. Miller's house; and his native woman was violently treated and knocked down on the ground, by the natives, till someone came to the assistance, who kept him in custody till I arrived, when I thought the most summary way of treating the matter might be the safest, and gave the native a good horse-whipping, which will, I hope, prevent not only a repetition of such conduct, but avoid unnecessary litigation, that might be dangerous in its results. I fear that you will suppose I have acted too rashly in this affair; but should you do so, I will give a further explanation of my reasons when I see you. [Signed] D. McL. January 4th. 1848. Dear Bell, I shall be most happy to furnish you at any time with whatever statistical information I may collect; and have not the slightest objection to your using the Returns herewith sent, in your Reports to the Company; excluding, of course, any marginal remarks, or other notes I may have made, in reference to natives, or other subjects. Yours very truly, (Signed) Dond. McLean. I have the honor to hand you, for Official transfer to the New Zealand Company, a map of the lands recently purchased from the natives of this District. A survey of the Reserves for natives, and other public purposes, being completed, within the lands lately acquired for the New Zealand Company, I have the honor to hand you the accompanying map, that it may be officially transferred to their Agent; as His Excellency is desirous no time should be lost in placing the land at his disposal. To:- Capt. King. January 8th. 1848 This day I have handed over to Capt. King. a map of the lands purchased from the Taranaki and Ngamotu natives; shewing the Reserves and arrangements, with explicit notes of reference, and may I not humbly acknowledge the aid of a kind and good Providence, in the conduct of these purchases and transactions, which have so satisfactorily terminated. May he still guide me to act with equity, justice, and full consideration for the various interests I have to recognise and satisfy; and lean on that only true aid and support that will strengthen me in this life; and afford me sure protection in a future eternity....... Two papers received from Uncle Donald. Letters, Land Accounts, and native supplies, with Capt. King. On the whole this has been a tolerably busy day....... On Thee, my God, my only hope, My rest, my aid, my strength secure; Do I this night in comfort rest, Confiding in the Arm of Right, That will not cause me to depart From religious virtue's happy path; Howe'er beguiled my heart may be, Oh, let me ever trust in Thee; That I may not forgotten be, Or left to follow one but Thee. Such is the excessive pride and vanity of man, that anything composed or produced by him, is, in his own estimation, considered as eminently superior to what it may, or is even entitled to be thought by others; who, from impartial judgment, would deem our attempts an assumptive arrogance to perpetuate; although receiving tacit approbation, proceeding from our erroneous and ill-founded ideas, of our being such immaculate objects in self-esteem .... Unworthy one, humble and abase thyself; aspire to nothing beyond thy reach and sphere; leave thy talents to improve and become developed by application and study; and never put too strong reliance on thy own insufficient powers, which are only the laughing-stock of those who know thy vanity; and that, as Ecclesiastics says, - "All under the sun is vanity." Taranaki 10th. January 1848 Mr. Peacocke, Sir, I have received by Mr. P. Harrington, your note enclosing a Bill for £2.1.6, which, to the best of my recollection, was settled some years ago; and it strikes me if your refer to your Books kept at Waiheke, you will find this to be the case. I shall examine mine to freshen my memory, as to the transaction; and shall again communicate with you on the subject. I remain Yours truly (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- the Rev. R. Taylor, Wanganui. Taranaki. 23rd. March 1846. My dear Sir, It is so long since we heard from you, that I sent Mair off direct to Wanganui, to return with letters from you, for which we have been so anxiously looking by every native from the South, for the last fortnight. I quite congratulate you on the success of your visit to Wellington, as far as the Land Question is concerned; as we hear from there that the Governor intends paying you a visit, with the £1,000 compensation for the natives. This will, I trust, enable the settlers to occupy their sections without much delay; and will secure to the natives, the benefits of a friendly relation with them; which I have every reason to hope will exist as long as you remain their natural guide and advisor. How deplorable indeed would the state of our whole native population be at the present time, if they had not conscientious and wise advisors. May your ''tamaiihis'', which is the most expressive term I can use for them, keep themselves aloof from all the evil and strife that is at present going on with some of their relatives at the Hutt; and continue to deserve the good character for improvement that has so evidently taken place amongst them; and whic I intend to report forthwith to His Excellency. As he does not come here first, as we anticipated, I hope you have had the goodness to communicate the results of our journey, with a copy of your Report,-which on reading through again, does not require any alterations, by furnishing it as your own; giving me an opportunity of writing a separate one; in which I advert to subjects that could not have been admitted in that; but with which you will be acquainted when I see you at Wanganui; if no alteration takes place in my services not being required there; as you are no doubt aware that the Protectorate is done away with at the close of this month. Mr. Wicksteed has kindly written a short article relative to your land purchase at the North. From his acquaintance with several respectable Editors of papers in England, I considered it best to place the matter in his hands; and have taken the liberty of putting him in possession of the facts relative thereto, contained in your last letters. The latest intelligence we have had from Auckland is that Kawiti, with 200 of his followers, visited Tirarau of Kaipara; with the supposed intention of influencing that Chief to form an alliance with himself and Heke; which was not acceded to. Heke is reported to have gone on a similar errand to Parore, the Chief of Kaihau. All continues as yet quiet at the Bay. There has been a fight amongst the Waikatos near Manukau; in which several natives and 4 Chiefs have been killed. We are, ourselves, very much in the same state we were in when I last wrote you. Unfavourable reports are frequently in circulation; but I hope, with the assistance of Providence, we may avoid serious disaster. I have, at length, erected a Native School House; and want, very much, to have a good-sized bell, if you can spare one, for the use of it. I feel obliged for your enquiring after my hand. He continues an. attentive and useful servant; and is anxious to visit the Mission Station, to assist Mr. Bassil in his gardening; and often says,- ''I should like to see Mr. Taylor's children. They are so kind and well-behaved.'' I shall now say Good-bye,- wishing you Mr. Taylor and all the children every happiness,- I remain, Yours sincerely, (Signed) D. McLean. Mr. Webster asked me to add his compliments. (undated copy.) My dear Madam, Your note of Saturday I did not receive till this forenoon. I shall enquire of Mr. Turton if the Snachenbergs want the saddle, as he had written some time ago to let them know the price. Hoani has agreed to take the tent at £3, and promises to pay me that sum when he comes to town. Mrs. Wilson feels much obliged for your kind enquiries after her son, whose illness was very severe. He is now with the Dr. and Mrs. Wilson and myself, and is gradually recovering. Being told that you considered it infectious, I am glad to hear that you and Ernest have escaped the influenzam. It has haunted me such a time that I dreaded calling at your new house, from hearing that you consider it infectious. I remain dear Madam, Yours sincerely (Signed) D. McL. Taranaki, New Plymouth February 8th. 1848 Sir, The Agreement or Power of Attorney you placed in my hands, by which Mr. W. Carrington was to pay me certain instalments of money on your behalf, has been transferred to Dr. Wilson on the 31st. ulto, in accordance with your letter to that effect of the 18th. of last January; no money having been, in the mean-time, received by me from Mr. Carrington. I am. Sir, Your obedient servant (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- John McGregor Wanganui. (undated copy) My dear Sir, I was glad to receive your letter of the 7th, October. Although really ashamed of the length of time I have kept your "History of the Church of Scotland", - for the kind loan of which I have to return my best thanks, and trust you will receive it in safety, by this opportunity. Your leaving Manawatu during the Wanganui disturbances, and residence amongst our country people at Wellington, I was made acquainted with long previous to the receipt of your letter, as I make frequent enquiries respecting you and Mr. Duncan, since I had the pleasure of hearing of your arrival in the country, and your acquaintance at Wanganui. With the desire evinced by the Scotch settlers of Wellington and Nelson that you should permanently reside among them, I quite sympathise, as they must feel the want of a clergyman of their own persuasion; and it is quite surprising that greater efforts were not made by our Societies at Home to establish at least one or two more in this country. We have been more than remiss in not planting a Branch of our Church. It may be that the field for Aboriginal Missions is preoccupied; but in fact, even that is only nominally, as I cannot but think such is not the case with our own country people, whose attachments to the Religious institutions of which they are members, is not easily alienated. But if in a remote country, they are totally neglected by their parent Church, - I should like to know who is to blame, if a partial estrangement should take place. I believe that the Auckland people are, themselves, making a praiseworthy effort to build a Church, and provide for a clergyman; and it certainly is time something was done there, where a great portion of the population are Presbyterian. It seems evident that more than absolute remissness is displayed in not having planted a Branch of our Church, with the first settlement of the Colony; nor can I consider our Church discharged of a duty she so much boasts of, performing, establishing, and propagating religious Missions in foreign countries, - till she has at least shown equal zeal in that respect with the several other religious bodies who are successfully engaged in such philanthropic pursuits in New Zealand. Why, - our Church, that has been generally first in such endeavours, should be last in this country, - appears to me altogether unaccountable; and although the rooted attachment of our country people, to the religious institutions, of which they are menbers, is not easily alienated, - there is good reason for supposing that if totally neglected by their parent Church in a remote country, - that with several, a partial estrangement from it may be the result; and even if the field among the Aborigines is preoccupied by other Missions - which I do not consider the case -that will not compensate for the religious destitution of our own country people, who form such a numerous and respectable portion of New Zealand settlers. I believe that the Societies already stationed in the Island, claim their exclusive right to religious ministration among the natives; but cannot clearly perceive why this exclusive right exists' if these bodies are incapable of occupying the whole country, and administering their duties efficiently, - which it is certain, with all their assertions, they cannot do; and there are now in this country, large and numerously peopled districts that only receive an annual chance visit from a Minister of any persuasion; and if one of those ministers happens to preach, and administer the Ordinances of religion to a barbarous people in the incipient stages of Christianity, for the sake of afterwards claiming them as his own flock, to the entire exclusion of all other religious bodies, - from the mere circumstance of having administered Sacraments before these natives, such is understood as possessing any other virtue than a mere external piece of formality, - I cannot conceive this constitutes the right has been so long assumed, and unreasonably contended for in this country. Now I imagine in such neglected districts as I have described, the Scotch Presbyterians have equally as much right - and not more than any other religious body, - to station themselves; especially if the natives evince equal willingness to receive them as their instructors; and I feel satisfied that one or two energetic Scotch clergymen would soon demonstrate the applicability of our genuine and efficient Church principle and discipline; which, from its unsophisticated simplicity, would be found so accessible to the capacities of the natives. I shall, at all times, feel interested in hearing that your Mission efforts, wherever exercised, will be attended with success; and that the improvement in Mr. Duncan's health will enable him to cooperate with you in the furtherance of your Gospel Ministrations, - whether to heathen in the South Sea Islands - where your Society contemplate Sending a Missionary; or residing among our own people, whose unalienable attachment to such ministrations, would render your work among them so acceptable. (unsigned copy.). (undated copy.) My dear Fisher, The Bishop's schooner sailed for Auckland by the North Cape on Tuesday last, leaving Mr. Govett here, and taking Parris and family round to the College; but as the winds have since been Northerly, she may not reach there till after this mail. But I have, to the best of my recollection, given you all the news I thought of in the letters I sent by Parris, - I shall not at present claim your indulgence to peruse a lengthy scrawl; and just scribble off a few hasty notes that may save me from the imputation of either writing too much or too frequently' as you used to suppose I did, when stopping with me. The Covetts - whom I have called on today for the first time, seem very comforatable. Mrs. Bolland and baby are also quite well; and indeed, I believe there is no illness of any kind in the settlement since the influenza disappeared; which I trust may not again visit us, as it has been, although not dangerous, a most weakening disease; by which I was obliged to confine myself for some days to the same sofa on which you used to lean, or lie down, during your illness, - only with this difference, that its position is now changed to the opposite side of the room, which is considerably enlarged; and several alterations and improvements made since you were here. I wish you were on the other side of the room; we might have an interesting korero with each other; but I guess Mrs. Ashton or William would not desire any accession at one and the same time to the sick list -although the alterations and improvements I have made in the house since you have been here would render it considerably more comfortable to us, and convenient for their attendance on us. I have had a new kitchen built apart from the house; Mrs Ashton's back place knocked down, and substituted by a small porch. I often think that if we could improve the mind, as we can our external objects, we might make very perceptibly advances; but no doubt a mind that is well directed is constantly undergoing considerable improvement, which are necessarily like objects of perception developed at one and the same time. I often think that if the improvement of the mind were as perceptible in its progress as that of external objects, - what a wonderful development we should have of what is now in a great measure obscured from our views; excepting at such times as circumstances call forth the collected energies of the mind; which in some men of peculiar constitutions, demonstrate that a silent but certain improvement has been going on ... But as I set out with the intention of not writing a long letter, I must keep to my promise of not being tedious on this occasion, especially as I am going to take the liberty of asking you to further a little matter of business for me, when you are in Auckland; which is, if it does not inconvenience you - to pay a sum of £10 to a shoemaker there named Rooney, who furnishes me with shoes, and to whom I send a note in the event of your leaving that sum with him; that he may know how it is to be disposed of; and I shall avail myself of the first-careful opportunity that offers to return the Ten Pounds; or should any person of your acquaintance be coming here, you will, perhaps draw on me for the amount. Hoping you will excuse my asking this favour, I remain my dear Fisher Yours sincerely (Signed) Donald McLean. Thursday, February 24th. (no year date.) Had an interview with Mr. Bell, when I told him that I had heard the natives must have been conveying false impressions to him, respecting the Omata Reserve; and that I had checked Bob, one of the native Police, for so doing; when, to my astonishment, Mr. Bell told me that he would continue to hold Meetings with the natives, and endeavour to get them to represent to the Governor the propriety of doing away with the Reserve; that he was made a scapegoat and liar of, in the transaction; and should use every endeavour to prove the position he took was a correct one, and one he determined to maintain to the utmost; that had I consulted him there would be no difficulty whatever on the subject; that he had not heard anything from Bob respecting the Reserve; that the natives were furious about it, and used strong language which he endeavoured to suppress, but that he would himself accompany the natives to the Governor, to get him to do away with the Reserve, which he deemed it highly improper to make without his concurrence; stated that he would write to me when the next meeting with the natives on the subject would take place. After I had told him that the most candid way of meeting any difficulty with the natives, in which I, on the part of the Government, was . Taranaki. March 25th. 1846. Sir, By the ''carbon'' from Waingaroa, I hear that you are on your way to this place; and, fearing you may be detained by the Tapu on the road between this and Mokau, I send the bearer to meet you, in the hope, that, with the note addressed to one of the Chiefs there, it may be the means of assisting you in continuing your journey. But should a difficulty still exist, from the obstinate character of those natives to whom you are a stranger; and that the Chief, Waitara, to whom I have written, is absent; on your acquainting me with the same, I will lose no time in hastening to meet you; and shall use every endeavour in furthering your desire of visiting this settlement. I have the honor to be, Sir, Your obedient servant, (Signed) D. McLean. To:- The Honorable, The Attorney-General. . Te Henui. March 28th. 1846. Dear Sir, Fearing you may be under some anxiety, respecting the report that has been in circulation of Katatori's having applied to the natives of Ngamotu to join him in destroying the Europeans,- making his first attack on your own place, I send the bearer to acquaint you with the particulars I have this day ascertained on the subject; which will, I trust, remove any suspicion on your own part, and that of your family, as well as the neighbours around you. This morning, at a very early hour, Katatori and all the leading men of Puketapu, came to my place; the native, who, it was said, circulated the report, coming along with them; when Katatori stated that he had come to clear himself of the imputation he was under; as he had not, in any instance, verbally or by letter, asked the Ngamotu natives to join him against the white men; that he had indeed spoken to one of them about your refusing your bullocks to carry in his wheat; at which he was vexed; and told you they should not run about Puketapu any longer; when the other replied,-''You ought to behave better to the Europeans.'' ''Ought I? Is it right I should'' This is every word he said, for which there is any foundation. Kapiti, who you know, and is one of the same tribe,- on hearing of two natives being killed by the soldiers at the Hutt, asked if they were Puketapus; stating if they were, they should tie up some of the Pakehas here, as payment. This was a mere passing expression from a man of no consequence; and from being spoken openly, was thought little more of by the natives, than a joke. I must say that the conduct of the Puketapus, implicated, would be to send for me to meet the objectors. Mr. Bell told me that he intended to write and let me know he was going to have a Meeting with the natives at Omata. Sunday, 27th. Feb. 1848 Governor Grey and Mrs. Grey arrived in the "Inflexible" from Wellington. They both called at Mr. Bell's, and went from there to Capt. King's, where I had the pleasure of dining with them. Objected to send the Governor's things out till after Service in the evening, in consequence of the bustle, and carts required on landing. Came here with Bell, and called at his place; introduced to Col. Bolton, Royal Engineers; met Lieut. Gordon there. Got home; had Evening Service with Capt. Rough, and William. Went in to town in the morning; transacted no business with the Governor; two deputations waited on him, - Messrs. Flight, Cook, Halse, Cutfield, and Bell. They did not consider their interview satisfactory, from not obtaining what they asked for, - being, I believe, land and Troops. Deputation to Dr. Wilson and others well received; and the subjects brought under the Governor's notice approved by him. Mrs. Grey and the Governor called at the fence after their ride, - the Governor requesting to be at Capt. King's by ten to-morrow; and Mrs. Grey, in answer to a note I had written in the morning to Mrs. King. as to whether the ladies should call on her. Grey stated he would be glad to see them at Mrs. Bolland's by between 1 and 2 in the afternoon. Note to Mr. Brown respecting his letters - Dear Brown, As I have not officially acknowledged either of your letters, and both of then being on the same subject, it is immaterial to me which of them you would wish to lay before His Excellency; only that the original is copied for presentation at 10 to-morrow; but by furnishing me the original of the copy, the latter may be handed to the Governor. Yours truly (Signed) Don. McLean. Monday night. Tuesday, 29th. February 1848 My dear Sir, The Governor leaves to-day, and all my business with him is to commence at 10. I spent a very pleasant evening with him and Mrs. Grey, at Capt. King's, on Sunday the day they arrived. My official correspondence I shall send on through you by the next mail as usual, without pestering the Governor too much in the short time he is to stay. I send for your acceptance. care of Mr. Rough, a small bag for presentation to any of your friends at Home. It was made by a Miss King at Wanganui, but native stitch and material. Under the same cover there are two sovereigns, which I owe you, balance of former account of £1.8/-, and commission 10/6. Having a crowd of natives round me anxious to see the Governor, I must conclude, and believe me to remain Yours with esteem (Signed) Donald McLean New Plymouth August 15th. 1848 Dear Symonds, Since I forwarded to you the account of Wanganui expenses, on the 16th. July 1846, you will perceive by a copy of receipt appended to the accounts, which I again re-furnish, that I have paid Messrs. Taylor and Watt in full of their demands against us, £27.9.8. In the above expenses I have not included the travelling expenses for nine days from Wanganui to New Plymouth, leaving it blank to be filled in in proper form by you in accordance with the rate customrily charged; or which you might be disposed to apply for at your own discretion. I am not certain whether the rate per diem then allowed was five shillings or seven and sixpence, but of course you have always arranged all this as you intended doing, when you arrived at Auckland. My reason for stating the number of days engaged at Wanganui was in consequence of your having some intention of charging for board, and at a certain rate per diem or per week, during our stay there; and if our expenses, which I know were considerable, should be in excess of that sum, the deficiency was to be made up by ourselves; but not having any accounts from you, I am perfectly ignorant of what that deficiecy might be; and I am very anxious, as I am really short of money at present, that we should have some settlement of these long-standing accounts. Settlement of Wanganui Question. Natives well-behaved; his plan adopted; rheumatic fever. Taranaki improving. Pleasure of seeing him. Brown's case, - temper overcoming prudence. (Signed) Donald McLean. New Plymouth, Taranaki. September 7th. 1847 His Grace Arch. Polding New South Wales. My Lord, I take the liberty of addressing your Lordship respecting the affairs of my late lamented uncle, the Rev. Coll M'Coll, who died in Your Lordship's Diocese, shortly after his arrival in New South Wales. I am aware, my Lord, that my uncle was not possessed of any large amount of property; but however limited his means may have been at the time of his demise, it would be a great satisfaction, not only to myself (for whom I believe he always entertained the greatest affection), but also to his surviving brother and relatives at Home, to have some statement of the manner in which his effects may have been disposed of. From a strong attachment to the memory of the departed, with whom many of my juvenile days were spent, some of them at his parish in North Moray, it would afford me a very great satisfaction in receiving an account of his effects, and to have some articles of his personal property to keep in remembrance of him; and I feel confident, from the highly charitable and Christian disposition for which Your Lordship is so eminently known and for which he is distinguished, that you will not deny me some information on a subject in which I am so deeply interested. I have the honour to be, My Lord Your Lordship's most obedient servt. (Signed) D. McLean. Inspector of Police New Plymouth New Zealand. Taranaki 27th. September 1848 Dear Sir, Some time previous to the receipt of your letter of 29th. ult., I heard from Philip Cullen, of Auckland, that he had sold my interest in a piece of land in O'Connel Street; and he wished to know how he was to dispose of the amount to my credit. I wrote back to inform him that it would be a convenience to me if he would pay it to Messrs. Brown and Campbell, in liquidation of a Bill lying in their hands. I mention this that you may perceive that I have not neglected your Bill, which I considered was still in Dr. Campbell's hands; although I did not remit any money direct from here; and I have no doubt Philip Cullen has, ere this, seen them on the subject. If not, perhaps you will be kind enough to mention the matter to Cullen. I regret to hear that Shulty has availed himself of the Statute of Limitation to avoid the payment of your account. I need hardly say that such a Statute will never in the slightest way interfere with me in the payment of my just debts; as I feel assured that you know me too well to think that I would resort to measures like that to evade the payment of a just claim. On your informing me by the next opportunity, what the amount still due on the Bill is, giving me credit for the payment of brimstone, etc., made towards it - you may rely that there will be no great delay in discharging the balance; and I trust you will forgive me for presuming so long on the lenience of a good old employer and friend. I am glad to hear that the ship is by this time, likely to be launched; and no doubt she will be a clipper. If you let me know for certain that you are bound to London, I will do what I can passengers. Why not give a call on your way to see Taranaki. If you do so we shall have an opportunity of discussing about the Nelson copper (which I have not previously heard of), and such other discoveries in the way of mineralogy as may perhaps be worthy of some notice and enterprise. We have an Iron Foundry getting under way here; which is likely to turn out well. I am very anxious to obtain leave from the Government to visit my old acquaintances at the North, in the course of the summer. I remain with best wishes Yours truly (Signed) Donald McLean. In furtherance of Dr. Sinclair's (R.N.) re-commendation, I joined the Department of the Protector of Aborigines, at Auckland, remaining there acquiring a knowledge of the duties I was to perform, (receiving every assistance and friendship from the Head of the Department. Mr. Clarks, as well as from Dr. Sinclair, then Acting Colonial Secretary of New Zealand, till the 17th. of July, - when I was instructed to proceed without delay to Taranaki, the Western District of New Zealand, to which I was appointed Protector of Aborigines. During my stay in the Office at Auckland, I frequently attended native cases at the Police Court, acting as Interpreter for Mr. Mathew, then Chief Magistrate at Auckland; and writing native and English letters. At the expiration of the first month, His Excellency, Captain Fitz Roy wished me to go down to Waiheke to settle some differences then existing, and causing some trouble betwixt the Ngatipoa, Ngatimuru, and Patukirikiri tribes, respecting the large Island of Waiheke; and when they were assembled, to the number of 600, at the Tapapakanga, on the West banks of the Thames, I communicated His Excellency's desire for a peaceable settlement being effected; and pointed out to them, from the evidence they had given me, the division of the Island into portions amongst them; each tribe having a full right to maintain what they actually possessed and cultivated, as the speediest and safest means to adopt. This was agreed to. Deeds were signed by each tribe, with the lands named, and boundaries defined. The arrangement appeared to give general satisfaction; when after a good feast of potatoes and pigs, they dispersed themselves, and I returned to Auckland, a day late to see the splendid native feast at Rimuwera; which was held on the 11th. of May, attended by from 2 to 3,000 natives from the Interior of Waikato, and different parts of the Island, the tribes headed by their respective Chieftains. [N.B. The foregoing ends abrubtly here, and is unsigned, but it is in the handwriting of the late Sir Donald McLean K.C.M.G. and is in a book containing copies of some of his Private Letters.] in coming so frankly here this morning, was much more satisfactory that I had anticipated; as, until it was cleared up, in presence of this tribe, who, to shew fidelity on their part towards us, made much of what fortunately turns out to be nothing. I was, myself, under more anxiety than I was desirous of evincing to your brother, when in town on Friday last; but I am glad to observe that the sensation here, is fast disappearing; though I hope it may not cause an entire relaxation on the part of all of us, in carefully watching the native movements,- especially those of such a troublesome neighbour as Katatori. I remain, dear Sir, Yours truly, (Signed) Donald McLean. P.S. Amongst the natives, do not, if possible, appear to suspect them of any unfaithfulness towards you; nor should I wish them to know my motive in sending the bearer; as apparent indifference goes a great way in preventing their worst designs. (Signed) d. McL. To:- J. Flight Esq. J.P. Mongoraku. . Taranaki. 26th. March 1846. My dear Sir, In reply to your letter and verbal message by Mr. Dorset, in reference to your whaling station at Moturoa,- I take this opportunity of acquainting you that I lost no time in seeing Poharama on the subject; who expressed perfect willingness that your men should occupy the station, without interruption. The payment for the Greenstone you so kindly, at my request, wished to furnish the Waitara natives, is not, as yet, made; but I have demanded it to be ready immediately on your return,- or sooner, if necessary; and if there is anything further in which I can render you any assistance, during your absence, I shall have pleasure in doing so,- by your informing me by letter of the same. I remain, my dear Sir, truly yours, (Signed) Donald McLean. . Taranaki. New Plymouth. 26th. January 1846. Sir, I have now the honor agreeably to the intimation expressed in my letter of the 2nd. instant, to furnish you with a more detailed account of my journey to Taupo and Rotorua, as well as amongst the tribes of my District. I commenced my journey on the 20th. of October last, in consequence of applications from the Revd. R. Taylor, and the Chiefs of Wanganui; who were desirous that I should accompany that gentleman to the inland tribes, as mediators on their behalf; and endeavour to allay the excitement that they were said to be under; which gave considerable alarm to the inhabitants of the West Coast; who feared another hostile incursion. In passing along the Coast, the natives flocked round me; making enquiries respecting a religious belief that had arisen amongst the Ngatimanui tribe; and extended towards those of Taranaki, - some of whom asserted that they had seen the Almighty and His angels; one of them stating himself to be Jesus Christ; others, His Disciples; were inviting their friends and acquaintances to come and worship the true God, at their places. The further I proceeded, the more I found of this fanatic delusion; but was glad to observe a majority opposed it, and were industriously pursuing their usual occupations. The country occupied by these tribes, towards Wanganui, is rich and fertile; producing most luxuriant grasses, intersected with rivers and beautiful lagoons, well-suited for agriculture; or, if occupied by stock proprietors, would prove beneficial to them, as well as to the natives; by creating a desire amongst the latter to become owners of cattle; which will, in all probability, be the best property to confer a real benefit on them. Nothing further of particular importance presented itself on my journey till I arrived at Wanganui; where I could observe a very perceptible improvement in the natives, within the last year; which is shown in some of their dwellings being built in imitation of the Europeans' style; and in an anxiety to be possessors of sheep and cattle, as well as fruit trees and seeds; which they receive from the Missionary gardens, and settlers, - who are mostly a respectable class of people; and interest themselves on their behalf. To the exertions of the Revd. R. Taylor, I should principally attribute the progress they are making; and the influence he has over the tribes of his District, proves of the greatest benefit to the settlement generally. Having remained some days at the Mission Station, and visited the Native villages in the vicinity, Mr. Taylor and I pursued our inland journey on the 5th. of November, by the Wanganui River, a distance of 40 miles; on leaving which, we travelled for three days across a forest country, with patches of available land, and occasionally some fine timber of the rimu and tawai. We next entered on open country resembling much the plains of Bathurst in New South Wales. The soil is of a darky, sandy loam, covered with coarse grass (termed by the natives, - Pouka); which improves towards Tongariro. We encamped at night on the banks of the Waitakaruru River; which flows through the extensive plains. In ascending towards the Taupo Mountains, which were partially covered with snow, we experienced a sudden change of climate, and aspect; our path leading over volcanic ashes and lava, until our approach to Rotoairo, the first of the Taupo lakes; being the only settlement since we left Wanganui River. Here the country again assumes a fertile appearance. The settlement is situated at the Southern extremity of the lake; from where the Waikato River takes its source. We were much pleased with the chief personage at this place, (mother-in-law to Heu Heu); who has a dignified and graceful appearance. She received us kindly; and pressed our staying the night; not to pass without receiving some marks of her hospitality; of which we gladly accepted, remaining there till the following day; and at night reached the settlement of Herekiekie, a young Chief of Taupo; who has been long meditating an attack on Waitotara, to revenge the death of his father (Tauteka), who was killed there. We had reason to suspect he still had intentions of carrying his designs into execution, whenever an opportunity offered; though professing friendship, and diverting our attention to the various objects worthy of notice in his neighbourhood; one of which, in particular, - a spring of boiling water, excited our curiosity; which, at intervals of one or two minutes, gushed upwards with a foaming noise, similar to the bursting of a whirlpool; accompanied by a subterranean rumbling; as if the earth was about to open, and swallow up the unwary spectator. The following day we arrived at the Rapa; and met with a friendly reception from the old Chief, Heu Heu; who had guns fired on our approaching his place; and whom, on our arrival, we found seated on a large stone in front of his residence; surrounded by his tribe, who all bade us welcome; after which he led us to his house; and on enquiring for some of his friends, with whom we were acquainted, he entered into a long conversation, respecting the war at the North; saying he considered Hone Heke one of the least of the New Zealand Chiefs, in prowess was more than a match for us; that Hongi, his relative, who went to England to see King George, advised Heke, when he was a little boy attending on him during his last illness, to be friendly to Europeans. But should it happen that after his death, a flagstaff be erected in New Zealand, he should be careful to prevent such erection on his own territories; as that would shew a desire on the part of the Europeans to possess his lands, and deprive the New Zealanders of their country. He said Taraia was a restless Chief, and not unlikely to take part with Heke; that he was, himself, looking quietly on; but could not avoid having a friendly feeling towards him, as a man of the same colour and country as himself; that indeed all New Zealanders were of the same colour, a continuous race of Chieftains, possessing spirited, but yet obstinate minds that no fair means would subdue; that there was a strong inclination on the part of the tribes of Taupo and Rotorua for more fighting; that the Ngatipikiao, of the latter place, headed by their Chiefs Rupi and Matangi, sent him a basket of cartridges, as a token that they were disposed to attack the Ihupuku Pa, and try the strength of the large number who collected there last year; as well as to be revenged for the death of some of their relatives killed at Patoka. These cartridges Heu Heu fired off to shew he was not disposed to use them for that purpose, - his desire being for peace; and through him it had been preserved up to the present time. Still, he could not suppress the warlike propensities of other tribes, who were only waiting the result of the procrastinated war with Heke; which kept them all in commotion, and made it difficult to keep them in proper subjection. He had, himself, declined assistance against his former enemies along the West Coast; and was even sending his women amongst them unprotected, (carrying presents to the Rauparaha and Ngatata), as an earnest of his forgiving disposition. The conduct of the Mission natives had given him dissatisfaction; but he highly respected the European Missionaries, who were all very kind to him, and regretted the Bishop had not placed one at his settlement; not wishing that a preference should be given to inferior; whilst he was neglected. Iwikau, his brother, who is generally averse to Europeans, and much feared by Natives, from his bold, determined character, - was exceedingly friendly to both Mr. Taylor and myself. To the former gentleman he felt indebted for kindness shown him when at Wanganui; and said he would be glad to see him of tener at Taupo; when he would think of becoming a Missionary, if it were not for the haughty bearing of some of the Mission Natives; who considered their religion placed them higher in rank than himself; which was a feeling he could not endure. Mr. Taylor told him that it was expected from all Christian natives to behave with respect to their Chiefs; and that he would lose nothing of his rank be becoming one. Iwikau seemed pleased at this; and here I could perceive the benefit that would result from the more frequent visits of such persons as Mr. Taylor. He also expressed himself grateful for my interference in the affair between him and the trader mentioned in my Report of July 11th. 1845; and said had it not been settled, he was determined to have taken payment from some other white man, or have tried the strength of the English, as Heke was doing. But its being arranged satisfactorily, and his own life probably saved, by my advising the opposite party to lay aside their fire-arms, before he arrived at their place; which led him to be more friendly towards all Europeans. On the 17th. Mr. Taylor performed the Marriage Service between a European and a Native woman; after which we took our departure from Te Rapa; Heu Heu accompanying us across the lake in his canoe; which afforded us an opportunity of a conversation; when I pointed out to him the benefits likely to be conferred on the Natives of Taupo, by having a European settlement at Wanganui; and how much it would be to his interest, to urge the tribes over whom he had influence, to behave well to them, (the settlers); mentioning that Turoa, a Chief of Wanganui, before his death strongly recommended peace to all his relatives; reminding them that they all originally came in the same canoe; that he had been a man of war, but he wished that now to die with him. I then explained to him the advantages of peace; and Mr. Taylor pointed out the evil consequences of war. Heu Heu replied that a grandson of Turoa's had been to see him, but had not said a word about peaceable intentions. He wished he had known them sooner; and if Turoa had-expressed himself to him in the same terms when he put the question twice to him at Wanganui, peace would long since have been restored as far as he was concerned; but as regarded the settlers there, whatever might happen in other parts of the Island, he would defend them. He apparently apprehended a rising against the natives of the West Coast, and strongly recommended any visiting Chiefs of Rotorua, mentioning their names, and to advise Hikairo, the leading Chief of that place, against doing so. He landed at a large Pah to the North of the Kapai; to which Heu Heu and his tribe resorted in time of war. He showed us some of his houses handsomely finished in the native style, and neatly carved. Here we took our leave of the kind old Chief; who urged us to visit him frequently, and appeared to regret our departure. Heu Heu having given me the names of the several Chiefs of Rotorua that were disposed to attack Ihupuku, and informed us of the feeling, which was not confined to them alone; as Taraia and Te Horeta, Chiefs of Hauraki, evinced a similar disposition. Here I would take the liberty of observing that there are appearances of excitement amongst the majority of the tribes around here, and a desire to return, in a great measure, to their old habits; when those innumerable feuds and grievances which have been laid aside for years, will be revived; the consequences of which might seriously effect our English settlements; and which demand every exertion on the part of those interested in the peace and tranquility of the Island, should be used. I therefore determined on seeing as many of the Chiefs as I could; and accordingly visit Rotorua with Mr. Taylor. After leaving Heu Heu, the first place we came to was Waimarino; where we found a body of Church natives more advanced in religious information than any we had met at Taupo; which arose no doubt from their Chief being the teacher, and zealous in performing his duties. The next Pa, Motutere, presented quite a different appearance; the inhabitants being in a perfect state of heathenism, continually begging from ourselves or natives; but during our short stay, we succeeded in shaming them out of such conduct. On the 18th. we came to Oroua, a small settlement; where we found some natives who had separated from those of Motutere; and had built, with the assistance of Mr. Taylor's native teacher, a large chapel for themselves. We found them friendly. From thence we continued our journey along the banks of the lake, some parts of which are very beautiful, especially a small village at its Northern end; round which we observed several cultivations. In turning off, on the road to Rotorua, we came to Rotokawa, a picturesque lake, about a mile long; the water of which is unfit for use, being strongly impregnated with sulphur. The country, after leaving here, presents a barren and dreary appearance, until we arrived at Waikato river; where we found a small settlement, with twelve Church of England natives. Takiri, the Chief, who terms himself a Missionary, was more inclined to annoy us by begging, than to behave in accordance with the character he had assumed. A short distance beyond this place the country presented the same barren appearance; nor did we meet with any change till we arrived at Pakaraka; where there is a level road running through some cultivations, and a fine clump of timber. From thence we got to a lake of Rotorua, named Motutawa, with a small island in the centre, where a portion of the Ngatipikau tribe live. In the evening we arrived at the Revd. R. Chapman's; having visited Tarawera and all the Pahs that lay on our way to that place. Here we heard of the arrival of His Excellency, Captain Grey, as Governor of New Zealand. The scenery here is interesting and romantic; but the soil is poor and unproductive. Many vegetables which grow abundantly on a small Island in the Lake, do not here come to perfection. In my interviews with the natives around here, I observed that the majority of them were desirous of relinquishing their war-like habits; and frequently mentioned the Chief of Taupo as the grand mover of their actions. They said that some of their people were still restless, and only looking to the result of the Northern war, to see how far the Europeans would conquer their countrymen. Accompanied by Mr. Chapman, we visited Hikairo; that gentleman having to settle a difference respecting some goods stolen from Korararika, in the possession of one of his native teachers; for which he was suspended from his office for one month. In conversing with Hikairo, I informed him of Heu Heu's friendly disposition; at which he seemed much pleased, and gratified at his considering him the leading Chief of Rotorua. He hoped that old grievances would be forgotten; and their newly acquired religion, only, attended to. There were a few in his neighbourhood, who, he said, wished for war; and he requested me to see them before we left that part of the country. The severity of the weather induced me to remain at Mr. Chapman's; and was afforded an opportunity of seeing his native infant school; with which, and the progress of the children attending it, were making, in learning English, I was much pleased. There are frequently 30 scholars, from four to eight years of age. Many of the girls are kept at the Mission House; where they are taught sewing and other useful employments. On the 26th. visited the Pahs round Mr. Chapman's Station; and had conversations with the natives; who were under an impression that the new Governor was inclined for war; which, they said, would arouse the jealousy of every tribe in the country, who remained neutral till they saw the result of Heke's proceedings. I found amongst them some natives who joined that Chief at the Bay of Islands; and who were industriously circulating incorrect versions of the several engagements; and striving to excite the better-inclined against our cause. Having removed the impressions formed against His Excellency, and answered the arguments urged against the Europeans by the disaffected, I was returning to Mr. Chapman's, when I fortunately met the Chief of Maketu, Pukuatua; whom I found a sensible, and well-disposed man. He told me he was instrumental in causing peace with the Tauranga natives, respecting Motu-Iti, an Island on the East Coast, that had been in dispute for years; that he wished to see the people of Taupo and the West Coast coming to the same terms, and all the tribes unanimous in keeping peace throughout the whole length and breadth of the land. The sentiments of this Chief being so favourable, I wished him to convey them through me by letter, to the natives of the district; which he agreed, - a copy of which I enclose. The next place we came to, after leaving Mr, Chapman's, was Ohinemutu Pah, the largest at Rotorua; where we stayed the night, and had a conversation with the Chiefs there; who expressed themselves similarly to Hikairo and Pukuatua; stating they expected most of the Rotorua natives would come on a friendly visit to the West Coast, during the ensuing harvest. We were very much pleased with the young children we met at this place. Most of them could repeat the English Alphabet, several English words, and count from one to a hundred with ease. The delight they take in bathing in the warm springs, that are so numerous there, give them a more cleanly and healthy appearance than at any other place we visited. On the 27th. we packed our tents, and commenced our homeward journey; passing by several hot springs, and valleys of rich alluvial soil. About 1 o'clock we ascended the Arakari Pah, on the summit of a steep, but pretty hill; that commanded an extensive view, giving a favourable impression of the whole District. At this place we met a few natives of the Ngatituara tribe. One of the old men there told me that there was a favourable feeling springing up amongst the natives, towards Heke; and a belief that in the next engagement he would be joined by all the Ngapuhi tribe. He had sent messages to the tribes on the sea coast, to prevent the landing of Europeans amongst them; and that he hoped Rauparaha would declare war against the English. From the Arakari, we came along under the Horohoro Range of mountains; which is high, and parts heavily wooded. At the Northern extremity, near our encampment, we ascended the top of the range; but as the sun was then setting, we were disappointed in not having the extensive view we anticipated. Here we planted some seeds of the Russian cranberry and bilberry; and descended to our encampment near a lovely grove, by a small river running through the plain. Our journey on the was through a plain land country, that our guide told us had been seldom traversed by Europeans. In the evening we passed some large rocks, that, at a distance, looked like the remains of a Druidical building. Here the road breaks off to Taupo, Waikato, and Matamata. we got to Rohena Pah; where we found some natives; and remained there during Sunday. , - Mr. Taylor went to visit Mr. Morgan's Mission Station at Otawao; whilst I continued my journey direct; which enabled me to spend a day with Ngawaka, the Chief of Rangitoto. The road to his place led through a very poor hilly country, covered with low stunted fern; with a few patched of timber; near which there are a few most untidy villages and cultivations, occupied by some of the Ngatiraukawa tribe; who do not appear to have any Chiefs of consequence amongst them; and are considered less hospitable and friendly to travellers than any of the Waikato tribes that live in their vicinity. In the evening I got to Ngawaka's, a distance of about 35 miles. This Chief, who is very high in hereditary rank amongst the Waikatos, I found exceedingly kind and communicative, - in his conversation, evincing a general tone of friendship towards Europeans; and has frequently three or four living with him; supplying them with the best his place affords, without remuneration; and from the circumstances of the persons who thus partake of his hospitality it is not probable that he ever expects any. One of his sons, a fine young lad of 13 years of age, he promises to send along with the Heu Heu's son, from Taupo, to live with me at Taranaki, to learn English. The latter Chief's son was on a visit at his place; and both of them came along with us a day's journey. Mr. Taylor returned from Mr. Morgan's, much pleased with his visit, and the reception he received; the natives shewing him every mark of respect. I could perceive a great desire on the part of the natives here, to become owners of horses; and those who have already got them, are, with Mr. Morgan's assistance, improving the roads through the Interior very much, by placing bridges across the deep creeks and streams; also cutting lines through the fern and bush. On the we came to the Paripari, - Taonui's place; where we pitched our tents, and had a long conversation with that Chief. He told us there was a report reached him, that Taiaroa, the Chief of the Southern Island, was desirous of being an imitator of Hone Heke; that Rauparaha had consented to join him, and intended making Wellington the first place of attack. But he assured us, if this was true, which he himself doubted; that neither he nor Heu Heu would join him in such attempts; that he would rather assist the Europeans; and should Heke attempt to carryhis threat into execution, of cutting down the Auckland flag-staff, the Waikatos would turn out to put him down. Notwithstanding, he considered Heke would be able to conquer the Englsih, had they no Native assistance. Having explained to him the strength of the English, without depreciating Heke's, I told him how well-disposed the majority of the tribes in the Interior were. There is an European living at this place, who is married to the Chief's daughter, and has a fine family of children by her. He cultivates some land there; and is establishing himself comfortably. On the we came to Wakatumutumu, - a Wesleyan catechist's Station; where we stopped and saw all the natives; who, I was glad to learn, had made considerable improvement since my last visit. The following day we passed along the banks of the Mokau, a rich fertile country, with few natives. After a fatiguing walk of 32 miles across limestone ridges, we arrived at Motukaramu, a German Mission Station. The Chief, Ekuri, son of Taonui, came there to see us; and told us that the natives of the Waitara had cursed his father in a quarrel about some land. His father had not yet heard of it; but he expected he would be very indignant; as the native who cursed him had been a prisoner of his. would, however, advise his taking payment in satisfaction. The German establishment here consists of one clergyman, and a practical farmer, sent out by their society, to superintend a farming establishment connected with the Mission Station. Ekuri has given them 10 acres of land to commence with, in a good situation, with the River Mokau between them and the Native village; at which there are about 80 or 100 inhabitants. There is an European emigrant living near; who found his way there with some traders from New Plymouth. He has a neat garden with wheat and vegetables in abundance. The natives are quickly imitating his mode of agriculture, and benefitting by the various kinds of seeds he introduces; as well as by his industrious habits. This part of the country is productive; and seldom visited by Europeans. Descended the Mokau river, accompanied by the Chief's wife, and a guide, to see us safe over the rapids, - the last of which is about half-way down, near a vein of coal; which, in all probability, may ultimately become valuable; there being deep water for small coasters to get alongside of it to take in cargo. The land on the banks of the River is principally composed of a rich mould; with a considerable extent available for agriculture; and some portions wooded with a variety of useful timber. It is uninhabited; but there are indications of its having been at one period cultivated and settled, from remains of old Pahs, and quantities of heavy timber, fallen, and decayed; replaced by a shrubbery of Koromiko and Ngaio. The enclosed sketch will convey a more accurate idea of the extent and capabilities of this river flowing through a country hitherto unexplored; or at least unnoticed, though not inferior to any other parts of the Western districts of this Island. Before leaving the Wesleyan Mission Station, near the entrance of the river Waitara, one of the Mokau Chiefs came to make enquiries of me respecting his vessel, the Hydras lugger; for which he stated to have paid 120 pigs. Understanding the Government had seized her for him, he was getting the pigs that were still due, ready to deliver; in hopes that she would soon be given up to him. I informed him that no time would be lost in representing his wishes to the Government. We then left for Pukearuhi; and took advantage of the night tide, arriving there next morning. This station has been lately occupied by a Waikato Chief; who claims it in right of his wife, of the Ngatitaua tribe; who formerly inhabited that deserted tract of country, now residing at the Chatham Islands. The Chief reminded me of having arranged a payment due him by a European at New Plymouth; which caused his shewing us a good deal of attention. He gave me considerable information respecting the Waikatos; some of whom, he said, were coming on a visit to Taranaki to see their relations intermarried amongst that tribe. This place is agreeably situated about half-way from Mokau to New Plymouth; most convenient as a place of call for travellers; which I observed to the Chief; who agreed to erect a house for that purpose. As an inducement, I promised him some stools and a door for it, with plants and seeds for a garden. From thence we came to the Waitara; arriving at New Plymouth late in the evening; and thus concluding a long journey of upwards of 700 miles, visiting and conversing with all the influential Chiefs in our way; and I trust, attaining the object for which it was undertaken. I have the honor to remain, Sir, Your most obedient servt. (Signed) Don. McLean. Copy. Translation. Te Ngae. November 26th. 1845. Friends, wishing you well. If we become desirous to go to your places to proclaim peace, I am in expectation that next harvest Iwikau (Heu Heu's brother) will come here. Then we shall consent to go to Taupo, respecting Tauteka's death, and talk that matter over. When it is straight, we shall go to the Ihupuku, North of Wanganui, to make up that quarrel, that fighting and killing be put an end to. My wish and thought is to make straight that quarrel; as I have done so with the Tauranga people. The Ngaterangi and Ngatiwakane will now be of one mind. Let you and the Heu Heu and Tuhaha (or better known as Herekiekie) be the same; that all the Maoris may live at their places, and all of them look to the orders of the Queen to destroy this Island. Then we shall talk together as one. This is all I have to say to you, from (Signed) the Pukuatua. . Taranaki. April 14th. 1846. My dear Mr. Taylor, A native from Rangitikei, who has been stopping at this place, has called on me for letters on his way back. As he is in a hurry, I will not have time to send to Mr. Wicksteed; and therefore must give you all the news from this quarter myself; and as they never like to be detained when on a journey, I shall only at present advert to some of the passing events in this neighbourhood. No doubt you will be glad to hear that Mr. Wicksteed's conduct, respecting his arrangements with Capt. Fitz Roy, has met the approval of the Directors; and he again receives his salary of £500 per annum. The roofing of the Church is commenced to-day; and will shortly be finished. The storm on Sunday night from 8 to 10 was very severe. Several houses,- at least three or four have been blown down. Mr. Woon, late of Hokianga, succeeds poor Mr. Skevington; whose widow is at present waiting an opportunity for Auckland and England. I think, from what I heard of Mr. Woon, and no doubt you have seen him, he will be a suitable person for the District. Perhaps I shall know something of him before I see you. The Mokau road is still Tapu. The Attorney General was returned from there (on a visit to Taranaki) 3 weeks ago. I sent to meet him, and get him along. On being refused to pass, he lost no time in returning. There is no late news from Auckland. By the last accounts, the natives around there were quiet; but those of Waikato were fighting and killing each other. A traveller..... [This letter is unfinished, and ends abruptly as above.] . Taranaki, New Plymouth. April 21st. 1846. My dear Duncan, It may perhaps sometimes occur to your mind that you have a cousin in some distant part of the world, without reflecting as to where the particular place is, further than that some faint remembrances may call to recollection your early days; when you sportively played and enjoyed the company of that cousin, with affectionate regard. Doubts may also arise as to whether he still exists or not; which it is the intention of this epistle to set aside. In these days to which I have just alluded, I had, in some respects, the advantage of you, more especially in being further advanced in years; and therefore my recollection of your infancy is still as vivid as the most recent occurrences; and from that time, till you were 6 or 7 years of age, and upwards, I was a frequent visitor and participator of your father's and mother's hospitality and friendship; and throughout that period, strong feelings of mutual affection and love existed between yourself, Helen, May, and I; and many a burst of tears have freely flown down your cheeks, when you used to hear of my leaving Ardluing. These, my dear cousin, are boyish scenes that I have been cursorily depicting, and such as can never again be recalled. As you are now, though youngest arriving at years of maturity, which, as they increase, may, I trust, call upon both of us to use our exertions in bettering our circumstances; and improving and developing the resources of our minds, that if we advance in pecuniary matters, we may not be regardless of wisdom and understanding; which, I have every reason to hope, you have opportunities of attaining; blessed with wise and provident parents, who have, no doubt, exerted themselves in providing you with a good and liberal education; which is the most permanent and valuable legacy they can bestow; and if these benefits have been conferred on you, my dear boy, they may, with God's blessing, and that of your parents, (which I hope you may always deserve), elevate your position in society; which I grant is already highly respectable; but always strive, as your worthy father has done before you, to gain an independent footing of your own; that all your relatives, of which I shall be proud to be acknowledged, as one may look with pleasure on the honest endeavours you make for advancement. It is impossible for me, at present, to enter into detail, on various subjects, that more than once have have occurred to me, as useful for your guidance as a young man commencing your career in life; especially if you intended, as many of your age are now doing, to establish yourself in a foreign country. On this, however, I feel satisfied, that the more extended knowledge and experience of your father, if still spared to preside over you, will be found sufficient; as the distance I am removed from you, and the want of knowledge as to your circumstances and position, render it, as I observed, difficult to enter into detail; though I may venture to advise that if a good provision is made for your home, you ought not to abandon it for imaginary fortunes abroad. But as I intend treating more fully on this subject, with your mother. I will proceed to give a short outline of the part of the world I am living in, and my present occupation. In reading the newspapers, you must frequently observe reference made to New Zealand; with long Parliamentary debates concerning it. You will therefore imagine it must be a place of importance to be so much noticed. That, I can assure you, it is of very considerable importance,- possessing I may safely say, the finest climate in the known world, very far superior to that of New South Wales, you have heard so much; nor could I confidently affirm its superiority, without reference to gentlemen of undoubted authority; who have been to other parts, where the climate is mild and healthy. It has also a rich and fertile soil, which hundreds of our poor country-people would, if industrious, become independent. By independence, you must not understand great wealth; but a freeness from want of food, and the common necessaries of life; with moderate provision for a rising family; and this is, of all other countries that I know or hear of, the best suited for bettering the circumstances of a poor man moderately industrious; that is, such men as we at home, term cotters or small tenants, of this class, from Devonshire and Cornwall. There are a few hundred where I am now living; and it gives me great pleasure to visit their cottages and witness their industry and perseverance. Some become possessed of cows; for which they pay from £18 to £30. Others rear pigs and goats; and have abundance of vegetables growing in their gardens; amongst which are the delicious and cooling water-melon and cucumber; of which, in addition to what grow in my own garden, they send me numbers, as presents; that are frequently thrown to the pigs; as my household establishment consists of only one dark servant; and some four of five New Zealand, our consumption is therefore comparatively small at times. But generally I have great numbers of the New Zealanders at my place; as I have been appointed by the Government, their Protector at this district. They look up to me as their guardian; and their old hoary-headed Chieftains, that have been great warriors and cannibals, now mildly address me as their parent and friend. I frequently travel amongst them; and they invariably treat me with respect and attention; their children running round me in flocks, followed up by their parents, as I approach their villages; and fondly welcoming myself and followers to come and partake of their hospitality; and decide their conflicting quarrels and contentions. My continued desire is for their improvement, and the promotion of social harmony amongst them and towards the Europeans; and I cannot omit acknowledging my gratitude to the Almighty, for having maintained peace and tranquility in the District over which I preside; which is the only one that has been so in the Island; and may Providence keep it so. I can only refer you to the Books and papers from New Zealand, for information as to the awful scenes of war and murder they record; and which is not yet suppressed; nor can any other than the eye that searches your heart and mine, forsee the termination of these disasters; with which your father, as a Military Officer, is sure to be acquainted. Tell him, from me, that a Highland Officer, Capt. Robertson, of the ''Hasard'' sloop of war, was the most gallant and brave soldier the New Zealanders have had to fight against. He is a son of Col. Robertson, of Invernesshire. The New Zealanders are a brave, resolute, and determined people; whose passions, when once roused, are not easily subdued; and though they have considerably emerged from the savage state, they still want the strong arm of power to keep them in subordination; nor will strength, if injudiciously applied, render them easily submissive. It must be accompanied with kindness and consideration. They are most ingenious, and fruitful in invention, and apt in imitating our civilized habits and customs. The Chiefs are also very intelligent; and in communicating their native traditions and history they delight; also in hearing ours, and the rapid advances we have made. All of them that visit my place are taught English words; and, to gain admittance to the parlour, must be dressed in trousers and shirts, or in their very best native mats or dogskins; and when in the dwelling, I do not permit them to smoke (to which they are much addicted), or behave with impropriety. There is a comfortable receiving house for them, close to our own; where I keep slates, pencils, and books, (of which I am at present scarce, both for myself and them), for their improvement and amusement. I am most fortunate in having a good negro servant; who keeps everything clesn and comfortable. He is an excellent cook; and Stewart never drinks, and is very faithful, and fond of Master; but does not like those who approach nearer him in colour,- the natives; though I oblige him to treat them kindly, and talk English to them. He and I get up at the same hour in the morning,- that is, between 5 and 6; and whilst he cleans the rooms, which occupies him an hour, I go out and teach whatever natives are on the establishment, who are always early risers. My faithful Sambo has gone to bed an hour since; whilst I am writing; and as I do not wish to distrub his repose, to supply a fresh candle, as this is burnt to the socket; and the flickering light it now gives, will soon be extinguished. Such indeed, my dear cousin, will be your fate and mine. May we, however, as this candle has done, throw a light around us in whatever part of the world our destinies are fixed; and continue in well-doing till we arrive at the socket that terminates our transitory existence,- will be the continued prayer of Your affectionate cousin, (Signed) Don. McLean. To:- Duncan M. Iness Lochgilford. Taranaki. 12th. August. 1846. Dear Sir, I had intended having the pleasure of writing you by the last ''Carbon'' to acquaint you with what was passing at this settlement; but was, at the time of her sailing, engaged with the Waikatos, 400 of whom were on a visit to the tribes of this District. Their arrival here caused a large collection of various other natives; so that our settlement was completely surrounded by upwards of 1,000 of them for several weeks. Amongst them I recognised many of Taonui's followers, who you so successfully dispersed from Wanganui in January 1845; and no doubt they still feel the check then put to their pilfering, as fortunately there was no repetition of it at this place, though I was under considerable fear there should, and used every precaution for its prevention; for which the services of our small Police force were most opportune. They were well received by the natives here; who supplied them with several tons of flour during their stay. I have not lately heard from the Chief that has troubled us so much with the ''Tapu'', which fortunately is not in existence at present, though I hear there is a messenger now on his way with a letter from him respecting it, the purport of which, if it affects us at all, shall be forwarded to you when I receive it. With the tribes along the line of coast towards Wanganui, I am in weekly communication; and am glad to find they continue in quiet pursuit of their agricultural operations, to which their attention seems to be wholly directed. They are getting two water mills erected, besides several small still ones that I have provided for them; and I have every expectation that next year they will export a considerable quantity of grain. Many of their young men are greatly pleased with the new Police force, and would willingly join it; and nothing would tend more to their own improvement, as well as to the efficiency of such a force, as might ensure the co-operation of their tribes in carrying out the ends of justice. For some months the rains have been incessant, though the settlers have managed pretty well to get their wheat sown. The advance in price has been the means of putting in more than was intended; and they have every prospect of being rewarded for their perseverance and industry. ..... . Taranaki, New Plymouth. 13th. August 1846. Dear Sir, I had intended to have reported to you the arrival of the Waikatos at this settlement, when the Carbon last sailed for Wellington; but lost the opportunity from being engaged with them at the time. There were upwards of 1000 natives collected round the settlement, from different places; 400 of whom were from the Waikato. Amongst the latter I recognised some of Heu Heu's and Taonui's troublesome followers; who you so successfully checked in their pilfering at Wanganui; of which I am glad to say there has been no repetition worth mentioning, at this place; all of them having, a week since, returned to their homes. In coming to this settlement the Waikatos had a difficulty in passing Mokau, occasioned by the ''Tapu'', which Taonui had placed on the road; and who, backed by 600 of his followers, insisted that a payment should first be made before he would allow them to pass. This was refused by the Waikato Chief, who, with his tribe, swam across the river, and pursued their journey. The tribes along the coast towards Waitotara are busily engaged with their wheat sowing; which has been greatly retarded both amongst them and the settlers, by the almost incessant rains in the earlier part of the season. They have, however, all of them, managed to put in a much larger quantity than they intended, from the advance in price; which has very much raised the spirits of the settlers. The news of Rauparaha's capture soon found its way amongst the natives here; who appeared pleased, and expressed their wish that Rangihaeata might be taken also. I remain. Dear Sir, Yours very respectfully, (Signed) Don. McLean. To:- Major Richmond. etc. etc. etc. Wellington. . Taranaki. New Plymouth. 18th. August 1846. Dear Sir, I am glad to have an opportunity of posting a letter by a ship sailing direct for England, to assure you that I have not forgotten the early interest you took in my behalf, both in the Highlands, and at Glasgow. And in fulfilment of my promise before leaving the latter place, that I should acquaint you with how I succeeded in these Colonies, I shall now proceed to give a relation of some of my adventures,- commencing with my arrival in New South Wales. On first landing there, I was advised by the Colonial Treasurer, Campbell Riddel, to whom I had a letter of introduction, to proceed to the Interior; where he himself kindly procured a situation for me, with Major Guil (?) Stewart, of Bathurst, 130 miles from Sydney; for whose Station I started on foot, accompanied by a young Highland shepherd; and arrived there in a few days' time. It being sheep-shearing, which is the busiest season of the year, I was afforded an early opportunity of acquiring a knowledge of managing sheep and stock; and from taking an active part in the several operations, of washing, shearing, and dressing them, I was considered in six weeks' time, fit to take charge of a new Station that was to be formed on the Fish River; for which place I was ordered to start with a band of shepherds, bullock--drivers, stockmen, and carpenters; most of whom were a reckless set of transports whom I had great difficulty in managing; which gave me a dislike to a bush life. The pasturage at this Station becoming exhausted, during the drought of 1840. I was ordered to abandon it, and remove my party to assist in forming a more extensive one for all the flocks; which change was a pleasure to me. I had more frequent communication with headquarters, or the home establishment; and became better reconciled to the duties, consisting principally of distributing rations and stores, walking or riding to the several Stations, examining and reporting on the progress of the flocks, and the conduct of the stock-keepers and shepherds under my charge. In this capacity I remained for some months after the expiration of my term with Guil Stewart; who had by that time some of his relations from Home, competent for the duties, and would not sufficiently augment my salary to induce me to remain. I therefore determined to try my luck elsewhere; and came back to Sydney, just at the time New Zealand was so favourably spoken of as a field for young adventurers. My anxiety to see a new country where I might obtain land from the natives, and possibly push my fortune, was such an irresistable temptation, that I used every endeavour to find my way there; which I accomplished through finding a relative of mine, who introduced me to a respectable Sydney house that had investments in New Zealand property. I readily agreed with the firm to come with one of their partners as an assistant, with a salary of £50 per annum; and sailed in company with the first Government Expedition for this Island. A few days after landing, I set to, cultivating wheat and garden vegetables, with Tom, Dick and Harry, at work along with me, as I was-very pleased to have any hands I could lay hold on, The gentleman with whom I came as assistant, was returning to Sydney; and gave me full charge of his establishment; which I conducted so much satisfaction during his absence, that, notwithstanding the depression then commencing in New Zealand property, he gave me £100 a year, with various other allowances. This establishment, like many others, began to fail, after the Government settled at Auckland; and being broken up, I was again thrown on my own resources. But I soon succeeded in getting another start; and, in connection with a Government Officer at Auckland, set a timber station going. This was soon done. Men were engaged for the work; and the woodman's axe soon resounded through the forest. Sawyers, boat-builders, and natives were busily engaged. Timber was shipped to market; and a busy village sprang up around me; and the natives, many of whom flocked around me to know the language; and in acquiring it, gave me their assistance in hauling and shipping timber; willingly exchanging their work for European clothing, and other articles. This apparent success was of short duration. A sudden and unexpected depression in the markets of every description, seemed to swamp and overwhelm in ruin the whole population, excepting indeed a few monied merchants, or such as were recipients of yearly incomes. Timber that had been selling so well, would not pay the freight to market; and with the whole of my small means invested, the prospects before me were anything but fluttering. Still I did not despair. My credit was good; and I kept pushing along at one thing and the other, escaping the ruinous fate of many of my fellow-adventurers, who commenced with larger means at their disposal. In the midst of my difficulties, I fortunately fell in with a Glasgow gentleman, Dr. Sinclair, present Colonial Secretary of New Zealand; by whom I was recommended to the late Governor, as Protector of Aboriginies; in which capacity I succeeded beyond my most sanguine expectations; and when that Department was abolished, the present Governor, Capt. Grey. appointed me Inspector of Armed Police; besides confiding the care of the natives to me; and appointing me as Justice of the Peace for the Colonies. Having now detailed the various leading circumstances connected with my career in these Colonies; which I hope may not be altogether uninteresting to a person who evinced in early life such a desire for my welfare; and to whom I now beg to remain, Your faithful and obliged servt. (Signed) Don. McLean. Taranaki. 20th. August 1846. My dear Duncan, Since addressing you a letter on the 21st. of April last, I have heard of you through Uncle Donald; who gives a most pleasing account of the progress you are making in your education, and also the probability of your becoming a clergyman of the Church of Scotland; in which high and sacred calling you could not so easily succeed without possessing a natural desire and inclination for the duties, as may carry you assiduously through your studies. If this, my dear cousin, is to be your profession and calling, I cannot too strongly commend it; and earnestly wish you God speed; as well as your parents, for helping your attainment of such a laudable object; which I trust may not only prove a lasting blessing to yourself, in early communing, and reconciling you with your Heavenly Father; but also of benefiting whoever may in future be placed under your pastoral care. I do not believe there is any calling in life, even in a temporal point of view, that has so many pleasing associations as that of a clergyman; to whom the charge of a flock has been entrusted; through reciprocal feelings of fondness are interchanged between him and his parishoners; and the various pleasing scenes he encounters from time to time amongst them, especially the peasantry, are, almost in every instance that a clergyman's energies are properly directed for their improvement, of the greatest interest and satisfaction to himself; nor ought a clergyman who is fortunate enough to preside over this interesting portion of the community, as their spiritual director, to lose sight of the great responsibility he is under to his Heavenly Master, as well as to every individual of his charge; and as great good is expected from his example and precept, they ought to be regulated on such a system as would ensure success. I did not, however, commence this letter with a view of setting forth any rules or directions for your guidance, - which would be presumptious; as this duty devolves on your friends and relatives at home; who are more able for its accomplishment. Still, I shall not pass over a few hints that may deserve your attention, as they happen to occur to me; and as I have found them of service to myself ----- [N.B. This letter is unfinished and unsigned. It is evidently a copy of the one sent.] Taranaki. 22nd. August 1846. Mr. Clarke, Waimate. late Protector of Aboriginies. My dear Sir, I should not have so long passed over unnoticed the kind treatment I received from you, whilst in the Protectorate. If I had an opportunity like the present of forwarding a letter to the Waimate, where I hear you and your family have removed; and hope you have by this time got comfortably settled at your old place; where I am sure you must find relief from being even removed from the seat of anxiety and care, attending your late duties. I duly received your letter, apprising me of the close of the Department, in March last; unaccompanied by a private letter from yourself; which you so kindly almost always sent me. But no doubt at the time, you were fully engaged with various matters of greater importance, - that I could not have expected one. Notwithstanding the abolition of the Department, I still carried out my duties, and prepared a long report of my Taupo journey, for you; which, on finding you gone to the Bay, I directed to the Colonial Secretary, Dr. Sinclair. A month had not fully expired, when the Government offered me the appointment of Inspector of Police, for this district; which appeared to me, at first sight, as rather a change of duty that might not be appreciated by the natives; in whose behalf I became deeply interested; but on reflection, found that it would add to my influence over them; and enable me better to secure them their rights; and therefore enrolled such men in my Force as would not be inimical to them; whose presence at the same time, had the effect of preventing their pilfering amongst the settlers, - to which so many of them are addicted to them and though I had some apprehension that the change of duty might have an unfavourable tendency, I am glad to find that my attention to their wants being continued, and their rights fully maintained, their disposition of friendship continues unaltered; and the appearance of the Police Force prevents many petty thefts to which we have been frequently subjected. We had a visit from Te Roto, and some of Taonui's people; who all behaved well during their stay of a fortnight at this place. Their object was to pay this tribe a friendly visit. The tribes of the West Coast have been passive during the Southern disturbances; excepting a few of the Wanganui people, who joined Rangihaeata. You will scarcely have heard at the Bay, before this reaches you that Rauparaha and 5 of his followers were captured at Porirua; for tendering assistance to old Rangi; and are at present prisoners on board the ''Calliope''. The old Chief offered Mokau 30 stands of arms and ammunition, that were seized at his Pah. An attack was to be made on the Hutt rebels about the beginning of this month; the result of which we have not yet ascertained. This settlement progresses quietly. Quantities of wheat are shipped to Wellington, realising a paying price for the growers; who are in good spirits, notwithstanding the limited bounds they have to work in. You scarcely ever hear them complain; and a more moral or industrious class of settlers are seldom found in these Colonies. I feel quite a pleasure in living amongst them. The first duty I had to perform since my appointment was to accompany Mr, Symonds to assist him in concluding the Wanganui purchase; which was not then accomplished, as Mr. Symonds did not wish to pay over the money in the unsettled state of the Wellington district. There is a report that the Governor wishes it settled; and perhaps I may have another tramp there before long. Having heard so seldom from Auckland since you left there, I should esteem it a favour to hear occasionally from yourself, or my young friend Mr. Henry; who, I hope, is quite recovered ere this, his misfortune, together with the loss of his situation. I had reason to feel not only from the kind treatment received at your hands, but from his being a particular favourite; and whatever may be his prospects in life, he has my best wishes; and as we are both young men pushing our way in the world, there is no saying where we may yet meet. I never heard whether you paid £5 for me, to the grocer Hughes; but presume you have, from not hearing from him. I had some accounts for stationery, etc. to forward you; but I suppose the time is long past, and must bear the expense myself. If I should see Mr. George with the Governor, (who has not been to see us yet), I will hear from him, likely, if it is paid; and will give him the amount for you. I have got comfortably situated at Taranaki, occupying poor Campbell's house still; and hope if any of your family ever come this way, they will always consider they have a home with me during their stay. In the hope of hearing of the prosperity and welfare of yourself and family, Believe me to remain, with esteem, yours very truly, (Signed) Don. McLean. Taranaki. 11th. September 1846. A. Sinclair Esq. Colonial Secretary. My dear Sir, I do not like to lose an opportunity by which I can give you any information respecting this settlement, and its progress, as I know it must be of some interest, coming so seldom. I intended writing you at some length, by Mr. Turton, who left unexpectedly for Auckland, by way of Wellington, three days ago; but as he has had contrary winds and calms, I daresay this letter, which I forward by private hand to Wellington, will also go by him. (unsigned). Taranaki. 14th. September 1846 My dear Sir, I am glad to have an opportunity of replying to your letter of 17th. ult., to remove the impression you are under, respecting my having sent a native to Auckland with strict injunctions not to call for your letters, either going or returning; and as such has never been the case, I am rather astonished you should have so hastily concluded that either myself, or any of the Taranaki people should have done so, with a view of disobliging you. The native Piriha, from Waitara, who frequently travels with me, and probably may have called himself my boy, is, I suppose, the native you allude to; and undertook the journey entirely on Mr. Bolland's account, and under his direction; but so far from being told not to carry your letters, the native himself assured me that he had orders to forward any for you from Te Maika, the Roto's place. His refusal to wait for Mr. Wallace's letters could not have been forseen by anyone here, - still less advised by them. But in this case, as well as that of the Post Office, it would be out of my province to interfere; as, if I properly attend to my own duties, they will afford me sufficient employment without meddling with those of others. At the same time, I have mentioned the matter to Mr. Webster; who forwards the amount by the bearer. I myself have been remiss in not having previously forwarded you the few articles you kindly lent me at Kawia. As far as I can recollect, there was something about 3 lbs. of tobacco, and two shirts. You were to have paid your boys for carrying my letters to Wakatumutumu. The articles I had there from Mr. Miller are paid for; and the bearer will hand you the tobacco and shirts. Mr. Turton has gone by way of Wellington for Auckland, instead of overland, as he had intended; but I am afraid the weather is settling in with heavy winds from the North; and I fear, if he has not good luck, he may not get up in time for your Meeting. With kind regards to Mrs. Whitely, who, I hear, is likely to visit Taranaki, I remain, truly yours, (Signed) Don. McLean. . Saturday 26th. September 1846. My dear Cooke, I was just on my way to the Hua, when I met Parata Tamaiti with a letter for Bolland; and had a talk with him about his father's behaviour. He said Purukau was the means of setting the ''whare'' on fire, by burning a large pile of stuff somewhere near the house. I told him this was all very fine talk; that I had no doubt both he and his father were as much to blame as Purukau; who would not have gone there at all without Huia's consent. I must go out to the Hua and see the Huia this evening before writing to Auckland, by Sutton, who leaves on Monday; and then I shall, with your permission, enclose a copy pf your letter to the Colonial Secretary, for His Excellency's perusal. I wish you had added what you have mentioned in your private note, respecting the danger your houses and stacks would have been in, if the wind had been from the N.E. Have the goodness to let me know by bearer, if I can send your letter; and if you will make that addition; as I shall carry it in my pocket when I go out this evening. There is a Kaipuke in sight likely to be the Brig. Yours faithfully, (Signed) Don. McLean. . Taranaki New Plymouth. October 12th. 1846. Dear Sir, I received your letter by Te Waka; who with Ngatata and several others (natives) arrived here a few days ago in the Government Brig, from Wellington. I can assure you that I feel much obliged by the trouble you have taken at a time when when you must have been so actively engaged assisting with the operations against the troublesome old Chief Rangihaeata; who, I regret to hear, is still at large, and likely to continue so for an indefinite time. No doubt he will endeavour to reach the Interior if some success does not attend Puaha's party in their pursuit; which I should be inclined to think is doubtful. There was some consternation amongst our natives before the receipt of your letter; originating from a report that Mokau intended to visit Waitotara; and in the anticipation of aid from Taupo, remain there till their arrival. This, of course, was a native report to which I did not give much credit; nor do I at the same time disbelieve many of their reports; as we found many very unexpected ones during Heke's war frequently confirmed. [unfinished and unsigned copy.] . Tuesday morning. 15th. December 1846. My dear Sir, Messrs. Flight and Webster spent yesterday afternoon with me, on their return home from Chillman's; and remained till it was too late in the evening to reply to your letter of yesterday; and thank you for the kind and useful present which accompanied it. In reading Blackstone's Commentaries,- which I shall frequently have occasion to do in my present occupation, I shall always remember the friend who so kindly anticipated my wants, at a time when it was so much needed; the gift being doubly enhanced, from the great difficulty in procuring such a work. I am exceedingly sorry there should be anything to prevent the pleasure I looked forward to, of seeing the Bollards and yourselves together on Wednesday afternoon; when I expected the ladies might have their homely chat, and let any previous coolness,- of which I believe there is but little on either side, die away with the close of the season. Believe me to remain, my dear Sir, very sincerely yours (Signed) Don. McLean. . Taranaki New Plymouth. 1846 Sir, I do myself the honor to inform you that on receipt of your communication authorising me to provide a Barracks for the Police Force, I had a notice, of which the enclosed is a copy, placed in a conspicuous part of the town, to afford the public an opportunity of offering the most eligible building, and on the most reasonable terms, for the purpose; and as a means, at the same time, of securing one for the Government. There being no suitable building to let, excepting an indifferent one in the centre of the town; where I had an aversion to station the men, for fear of their forming too great an intimacy with persons resorting to public houses, or such other places as might lead them away from their duties. I have arranged with a party, who was erecting a building for a residence on a more elevated and desirable situation, some hundred yards from the town, to add to his house, and finish it more in Barrack style; the length of which will be 50 feet by 16 wide; with a fire-place and partitions; to be ready on the 1st. of January next; for a rental of £25 per annum; to be paid quarterly, as stated in the accompanying copy of lease; which I have had drawn out by an Attorney, to prevent a future misunderstanding with the landlord; for drawing which amount I beg the sanction and approval of His Excellency. Sir, Herewith I have the honour to transmit the enclosed Salary Abstracts for the Department of Armed Police at this settlement, for the sanction and approval of His Excellency the Lieut. Governor. I have. etc. (Signed) Don. McLean. . Sir, I have the honor of forwarding, with translation, the enclosed copy of a letter which I received from the Chiefs of Wanganui, containing information respecting the intentions of Rangihaeata and of his colleague, Karuria, at Wanganui; who have written to the various Chiefs therein named, for the sanction and assistance of their tribes in continuing their opposition to the Government. The frank and unreserved manner in which these Chiefs conveyed this information, and forwarded it, induced me to incur the expense of a cloak, as a present to the principal Chief; and a Pound for the messenger; which will, I hope, be sanctioned by His Excellency the Governor; from the particular circumstances under which the amount was incurred; and for which I beg to forward the enclosed Vouchers. I have the honour, etc. (Signed) Don. McLean. Sir, I do myself the honor to inform you that in addition to the several duties of the Police Force at this settlement, as reported to you, I have recently employed them in felling timber, and in accustoming them to bush work, to render them more ready and efficient in performing any duty of that description that may be hereafter required of them. The wood that is cut down by them, will be most useful for cooking their meals, and as fuel for the Barracks during the Winter; to which purpose, with His Excellency's permission, I intend to apply it; should a continuance of labour of this description be authorised. I am glad to observe that the men cheerfully comply with all my directions; and are making considerable improvement in their general discipline and drill. I have, etc. (Signed) Don. McLean. Taranaki. 11th. January 1847. My dear Sir, I avail myself of an opportunity that offers by two men leaving for Auckland, to acquaint you with my proceedings since I addressed you on the 21st December from the West Coast; where I was stationed for several days with three of the Police, to be in readiness either to proceed to Wanganui, or return to New Plymouth; at both of which places, His Excellency was daily looked for. Having heard by the Brig Victoria, that Troops had been landed at Wanganui,- as intimated in your private communication; and that His Excellency was at Wellington intending to follow them in a few days, I considered I should be fulfilling my instructions, and perhaps anticipating His Excellency's wishes, by going to that settlement to await his directions. I therefore went on there; and found the Troops were safely landed, and busily engaged with their entrenchments and fortifications; the Friendly Natives assisting, in hauling down timber for them; who, with the settlers, were highly pleased with the prompt manner in which their petitions were answered by His Excellency; in forwarding them such protection as would ensure their safety from Rangihaeata's party on that River; as well as from the Interior tribes; who, by the Karamu's persuasions, were threatening and preparing for a further descent on the settlement. Whilst at Wanganui, I did not assign any particular reason for going there, further than, in common with others, that of expecting to see His Excellency; and to the enquiries of the anxious settlers and natives, relative to the Land Question, I informed them I could do nothing, or even say anything on that subject, without his instructions. After remaining there two days, H.M.S. "Racehorse" hove in sight; and all made sure the Governor was on board; but were sadly disappointed when we learned that he had gone to Auckland, in consequence of Despatches he expected to receive there by the "Inflexible", steamer from England. This intelligence caused me to return to Taranaki to await further orders; and since my return, I have been engaged with Native disputes and differences; which, tho' of little importance, when viewed separately, have wonderfully accumulated in the short time I have been gone; but as these matters, together with the duties of the Force, will form the subject of an Official letter, I shall not at present intrude any further on your time, by entering into details. I remain, my dear Sir, Yours very truly, (Signed) Donald McLean. (attached to foregoing letter). Capt. King wished me to mention to you that he would write by the first opportunity; and though this goes by an irregular hand, still I have no doubt you will excuse it when it is my object to keep you always in possession of what is doing. I have placed the men in Barracks to-day, and armed them with the new carbines from Auckland. The case of stationery has come to hand. The money for the Force, and to the settlement generally has been most acceptable, and I hope we shall get on well for a time. It will be an incalculable advantage to have monthly and weekly payments; as the money circulated is readily felt amongst such a small community. Being heartily tired after my day's work; and having walked and ridden 50 miles the last few days journey from Wanganui,- which I came altogether in three days and a half, I will, now that it is past 11, bid you goodnight; and believe me to remain, Yours with esteem, (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- Andrew Sinclair Esq. Colonial Secretary. Taranaki New Plymouth. February 1st. 1847. My dear Sir, Whilst the inhabitants of our interesting little hamlet have been desponding under the unwelcome intelligence of a great reduction in the price of wheat in the neighbouring Colonies, they have been suddenly cheered up and revived by the arrival of the "Elora" direct from England, after a favourable passage of 99 days, with dates up to the 9th. October; and as she may have communications of importance for His Excellency, I have apprised Mr. Webster, the Postmaster, that a Police man should be placed at his disposal, to proceed, if necessary, direct to Auckland, with the mail, at as early a period as he may find it convenient to despatch him. The most important information from England, relative to New Zealand, is the Act that has been passed to make further provision for the Government of the Island; of which I had a cursory glimpse from a copy belonging to the passengers. It does not appear that the Company have succeeded in obtaining a proprietary Charter; nor in having such powers conceeded to them as the change of Ministry might lead them to expect; although there is an Act passed for granting them certain powers; which has not yet come to hand; as well as another authorising the loan of £100,000 from the Consolidated Fund, in the following proportions,-£8,000 towards discharging outstanding debts in New Zealand; £25,000 for carrying on their establishments; £67,000 towards the purchase of land, satisfying Native claims, surveying and defraying expenses of establishments at Otago and Wairarapa. This loan is to be repaid with 3 per cent interest in seven years, and secured by mortgage of their lands. In the Act first alluded to, I observed that Municipal corporations were to be established on a similar footing to those of England and Wales; and that the Island should be divided into two or more Provinces; where separate legislative Assemblies should be established; also that the Native laws and customs should be maintained in certain districts amongst themselves, as far as they are not repugnant to the general principles of humanity. One favourable feature in the concluding part of the act,- the numerous provisions of which I am unable to ennumerate, is that the Queen, with the approval of her Privy Council, can delegate certain powers vested in her to the Governor-in)Chief; which will, in all probability, greatly facilitate the general operations of the Government. Inspector of Police. In "The Times" of 16th. September, I have read an account of the murders on the Hutt. In May last, which I believe was the latest news from this Colony, by way of Sydney, this, with the "Spectator" of October 3rd. containing the 21st. report of the Company; and a "Daily News" of the 9th. October, are the only papers I have seen. The latter contains no intelligence in reference to the Colonists; as its pages are principally occupied with the political differences in Ireland; and the starvation occasioned by the failure of the potato crop; which has been even greater than last year. Nor is this sad calamity confined to Ireland alone; as it is felt throughout the Kingdom, and particularly in the West of Scotland. The "Elora" has had beautiful weather whilst here; and landed some Thrashing Machines, with various farming implements and other goods. She has 21 cabin passengers on board,- 18 of whom intend settling at Auckland, but remain in the ship till she has gone her rounds to Nelson and Wellington. One of them, who is a farmer, remains here, being quite fascinated with the beauty of this part of the country, in addition to its being so peculiarly adapted for his pursuits. Since the commencement of the present year we have been fortunate in several vessels calling here, most of them coasters. The harvest reaping is rapidly progressing, and promises favourably, considering the drought. The Attorney-General arrived here from Wellington overland; and proceeds on his Auckland Journey in the morning. As I am afraid I have already intruded too far on your time and patience, I shall not trouble you with any further letters or Reports this time; and I should not have prolonged this, were I not anxious to give you all the English news I could think of, as probably there may be no Official Despatches by this mail. Yours very truly, (Signed) D. McLean. To:- The Colonial Secretary. Inspector of Police. (undated). My dear Sir, I went as far as Waitara yesterday monning with Mr. Swainson; and was sorry that he had not time to visit the inland parts of that beautiful district, rendered so much more interesting of late, by the desire of some of the natives to dispose of a portion of it. I handed the Acts, which I now return, with the letter enclosing them, to Mr. Swainson; who was glad to have had an opportunity of seeing them before he left. William takes in a small package of sugar for Mrs, Wicksteed; which may last a few days till there is a further supply of better than she has at present, in the settlement. Mr. Flight has got on wonderfully with his harvest; a large part of it being already stacked; but really there is nothing to hinder a great deal being done, even with few hands, when there is such a continuance of lovely weather. Yours very truly, (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- J.T. Wicksteed Esq. Inspector of Police. February 5th. 1847. My dear Sir, I send you Mr. Turton's letter relative to Loveridge's case, with a rough copy in reply; which I should thank you to look over, and to make what remarks on it you may think proper. If you have received anything for me in your Auckland packet, I should feel obliged by your sending it per bearer. I have not a line from there by Post. The wheat is cut down on the site of the Hospital; so that you may come out on Monday, or any other day you may name. Mr. Cutfield and Mr. Williams will of course accompany you when you do come. Yours very truly, (Signed) Don. McLean. I considered it most advisable not to allude to you in reference to Loveridge's case; as if I had laid an information officially before you, it might be expected you would enforce the penalties of the Ordinance; and being an Official letter, you may perhaps concur with me in having done so. (Signed) Don. McLean. To:- Capt. H. King R.N. Inspector of Police. . Taranaki New Plymouth. February 8th. 1847. Dear Sir, In a distant Colony like New Zealand, where communication with Home is both tedious and uncertain, it often happens that circumstances of the most serious importance in connection with relatives and friends, remain unknown long beyond the period of their occurrance; and premising the probability of this being the case in the present instance, I feel myself called upon, as a country man independent of the obligations I am under to one I understand is connected with Provost Lumsden, to convey intelligence to you, which I truly wish were of a more pleasing nature. Accustomed, however, as you must have been, in your professional duties, to witness, and no doubt participate in the applications of others; who. under the dispensation of a wise Providence, have been deprived of their nearest relatives, I hope that experience will the better reconcile you to the loss of your own esteemed son, who lived at Nelson; the circumstances of which are detailed in a newspaper, which is herewith enclosed, to ensure its reaching you; and though the account here given is not definitely conclusive as to his being lost,- still I should be far from leading you to suppose (from knowing the coast, and instancing cases of a similar nature), that there is the most distant hope of his recovery. Situated as I am, a considerable distance from Nelson, I never had the satisfaction of meeting your son; though I did hear that in the vessel, which unfortunately resigned him to his watery grave, he intended coming here on a trading visit; when I fully expected an opportunity of entertaining him as my guest whilst he remained, and should be at all times happy to do as much as lay in my power towards offering shelter and the rights of hospitality to a more distant relative or friend of his worthy uncle, Provost Lumsden. I remain, dear Sir, Yours faithfully, (Signed) Donald McLean. Forwarded to Kawia by Overland Mail, 9th. February, in newspaper, to,- Dr. Perry of Glasgow, care of J. Lumsden Esq. Queen Street . March 1st. 1847. His Excellency, Governor Grey, who arrived at this place by the ''Inflexible'' steamer, on Friday 26th. February, had his first Meeting with the natives of Ngamotu this morning, at the Devon Hotel, when the following Chiefs were present:- (Poharama and Wiremu Kawaho (Rangi Kupua and Ngatata Taranaki. (Rawiri Honi Ropiha and Firipi (E Waka and about 25 of the Ngamotu (tribe, including the old Chief (Eruera. (Epumi Etako and several young (Chiefs from Wellington, of the from Wellington (Ngamotu tribe. (William King, of Waitara. (E Ringa Tahana Taumata and about (10 others from the Puketapu. Before the Meeting the Governor explained through his Interpreter, Duncan, the arrangements he intended carrying out, in reference to the Land Question, to Etako, who he wished should explain them to the rest of the natives; as many of them were savages, and could not comprehend what was for their good. Etako declined any interference on his part till all the natives were present. The Natives were then sent for; and the principal men amongst them, taken in to the long room; the others were to sit down on the green in front, with the doors open, so that they might hear what went on. I observed, in addition to Mr. Thatcher, private Secretary, Capt. King, the Officials, Messrs Bollard and Cotton, Mr. Turton, Mr. Halse, Mr. Thomas King, and one or two settlers (Mr. Smart) at the head of the room; and a crowd of labourers seated or squatting behind the natives. The Governor's proposals to the natives were as follows:- That as Mr. Commissioner Spain had awarded the land in this district to the Europeans, and consequently it was his intention that the Europeans should live on their lands they now occupied, and that they were not to be molested or interrupted in their occupation of it. That notwithstanding Mr. Spain's award, he would consider the promises made by Capt. Fitz Roy binding, as the words of a Governor were sacred and not to be broken; and would therefore retain ample lands as Reserves for the natives; and what was not required by them, he should purchase for the use of the settlers. That such lands as were reserved would increase so much in value, that by the time the payments for the land, which was to be made annually in 6 months' instalments, were concluded, they would increase so much in value that they would become a good property for them; part of which he would allow them to dispose of, retaining always a sufficient quantity for themselves and children. That he would immediately appoint an Officer to carry out these arrangements; and should any of the natives oppose them, or not meet views which he considered as most favourable for their interests, he should have the claims of such parties strictly investigated, as to the validity of their claims, by an officer he would appoint for that purpose; and should their claims be invalid, they should be excluded from all the priveleges that he was now offering to such as agreed to his proposals. spoke as to the boundary agreed to by the late Governor being the only one he intended to adhere to; and after some remarks backwards and forwards between the Governor, Capt. King, and myself, His Excellency told him he did not consider he had any right to the land; as he had disposed of it while others were absent, and caused all the trouble that has since ensued; and that the only amends he could now make, was to assist in getting the matter settled. speech was to the same effect; with a similar reply from the Governor; and and the Wellington natives were specifying the land they owned in the Block lately purchased; for which they had not received payment; and wished the Europeans outside the Block to be removed inside it. Waikanae, also opposed any sale that should be concluded at Waitara without his sanction and presence; as many of the natives were absent, and no permanent sale could be effected without them; as all natives, however low in rank, had an interest in land. replied that he could not prolong or delay operations on his account; and that he and others had better depute agents to select the lands that wished to have reserved; also promised Epuni he should be paid for his interest in the land purchased by Governor Fitz Roy, as well as keeping a good reserve for him. was promised a piece of land near Parakau, to build a house, or if the Governor could purchase it. and said they were disposed at all times to favour the Europeans. At the close of the Meeting, a Puketapu native, Tahana, proposed that his tribe should come in, bad as they were; which was agreed to; and he went off to summons them, by 10 o'clock tomorrow, to have a Meeting with the Governor. In the forenoon had a Meeting with the Taranaki natives owning the land at Tataraimaka; which they offered for sale; when it was arranged that I should make purchases from them without loss of time. They behaved well at the Meeting, and went off satisfied. Present,- Te Matimoana, E Honi, Ti Haki, Paratene, and several others, about 18 or so in all. After which about 14 of the Waitara natives, with a Wesleyan teacher, Ihaia, came to offer their land for sale; but nothing definite was arranged with them further than I was to be instructed to carry out these arrangements by order of His Excellency. The next Meeting was that of the Puketapus. About 40 or 60 attended, and offered the most determined opposition to part with an inch of land. The parties who spoke were,- Raniera, Katatori, Waiana and two or three more unimportant fellows. The Governor told them unless they were inclined to come to his arrangements, he should doubt the validity of their claims, and have them investigated by a person whom he should appoint for that purpose; that his arrangements were for their good; and their wisest course would be to attend to them while they had an opportunity; that they ought to remember they were once driven from their land, and they had better not run the risk of its being repeated; that he was not to be tossed about from place to place as they thought proper, but should adhere to his own plans and purposes. The natives did not much relish the Governor's speech, and set off home. After the Meeting, walked with the Governor to Moturoa to see Barret's children. A Meeting of the Ngamotu tribe was held; when it was agreed by E Waka, Honi, Ropiha, Pohorama, and all the natives present, that Capt. Fitz Roy's boundary line should be carried straight on from Mr. Aubry's section to Mr. Smart's; thereby including 6 different sections; and that all the land from the Burying Ground at Moturoa to the Henui, inland of Capt. Fitz Roy's boundary, should be disposed of to the settlers; and that they should be paid annually for the same; providing large Reserves, in the first instance, for the natives. In conversation with the Governor in the afternoon, he told me that the natives might retain such lands as they were cultivating, for three years, if that would be sufficient. I told him that from one to three years would be sufficient. Some natives were with the Governor in the morning; who promised to let Smart have all his land; but I was not present. The Governor inspected the Police Force; and expressed his satisfaction at the good order they were in; and at the arrangements at the Barracks; which, he said, in every respect, exceeded his expectations. He told the men that he was glad to hear I had given them such a good character; and that promotion would be given to the best behaved of them, in other parts of the Colony; and in speaking to me, he said the men did me a good deal of credit; that he would see that I had a better supply of arms sent me. In conversation with myself, he said that when he conferred the appointment on me, he was not certain that I could fulfill the duties, from not having a knowledge of these matters; though he did not at all doubt my zeal, from what he had heard of me; but that he was most happy to find that everything had been in such complete order,- even better than his own force that he thought so much of at Adelaide; that he was now so confident that he would think of enlarging the force. I stated to His Excellency that I fully confessed my entire ignorance of conducting the Police duties, when I first joined the service; and felt obliged for the handsome manner in which he conferred my appointment on me, without at all knowing me personally. A report had been circulated in the forenoon, that the Puketapus were coming in; but I did not give credence to it, as they shew too great a spirit of obstinacy for coming to terms. Walked about with the Governor in the morning; and had an outline of instructions given to me, respecting the Land Purchases at this settlement. In an interview with Colonel Wakefield and the Governor, it was arranged that sections would be open for selection by the priority of choice in the lands to be first purchased for the immediate use of the settlers; which the Colonel readily agreed to. We had a long conversation as to how Military operations should be conducted in this settlement; and how far the Waikanae natives could be stopped from coming up here. I told him they would, in all probability, be 10 days on the voyage; and not likely to put in at Wanganui, but rather 20 miles this side of it, and at Otumatua; where they might be stopped, and their canoes seized. The Colonel said something to me about not interpreting what the Governor said about another people occupying William King's territories; but I rather think the Colonel was misinformed on the subject. The Governor wrote out my instructions; and I afterwards rode towards Standish's; and from there to Hursthouse's and Broadmore's; calling at Sechem's and Neale's after we got back. Dined at Mr. Bollard's. Went to see the Governor at half past 7; and found Henderson and Duncan along with him, talking over native matters. Tea at Mr. Bollard's in the evening. At half past 8, got into town. Received my instructions from the Governor, respecting the purchase of lands in this District; and was present at an interview with Colonel Wakefield and Mr. Wicksteed; when the Governor read portions of my instructions; and when they agreed to accept, on the part of the Company, of a Block of land beyond the Sugar Loaves, as a portion of what they were entitled to; and when the Governor told them they would receive 60 or 70,000 acres of land from the Government, exclusive of reserves, by the former arrangement being only entitled to 54,000, a 10th, being reserved for the natives; and that they might either still reserve a 10th or not as they thought proper; but that he did not consider it necessary they should do so. Colonel Wakefield considered it would only involve them in greater difficulties to do so. A conversation also arose as to the Colonel's motives in making these Reserves; when the reason assigned was that the Reserves made in the scattered state they were in throughout their Blocks, was with a view of amalgamating the races; but the Bishop took a different view of their intentions, and did not admit that he wished the Reserves made in such a manner. Mr. Wicksteed positively asserted that the Bishop did not wish to allow the natives to occupy their Reserves; thereby rendering the Reserve Question as complicated as it was before. The Governor considered it highly imprudent that Reserves were not made on the banks of the Waitara; not one section being chosen there for the natives; and considered it might be a good arrangement to let them have the North side of Waitara to themselves; which, indeed, might on the whole, be a wise arrangement to let them have such a portion as would meet their present and future wants, and resume the purchase or occupancy for the Europeans, of the rest. The Governor instructed me to put the Company Agent in possession of the Southern Block of land, and other lands as I acquired them; and to have lands surveyed to meet the wants of the settlers. The Governor then replied to my queries respecting the Police; and allowed some of my requests; and in a few minutes afterwards we embarked on board the steamer, and had a kind reception from the Captain and Officers. After sailing to the Waitara River we returned to the Bay in front of the town, and got home by 3 p.m. Messrs. Bollard, Cutfield, and W. King were with me on board. After returning, I engaged with Mr. Harris, surveyor, to prepare to commence work, with a party of men, without loss of time; also saw Mr. Carrington, whom I wished to employ on the Southern Station survey, provided he would go on reasonable terms; to which he promised to return an answer on Monday by 10 a.m. Engaged Bob Erangi's son as a Policeman; and getting his outfit provided; giving him permission to go to Taranaki, if he is back by Wednesday. Attended Church in the forenoon and afternoon. Mr. Cotton (who dined with me) preached two very good sermons, and reminded me rather of our Scotch extempore preaching; though in some few instances, there was an uncalled for variation from his text; excepting which, he seems to be a young man of considerable talent, and extensive information. Went in to town at 10; Mr. Riemensnider and Mr. Davey having called on me; the latter to get employment in the Survey before I left. When I got to town, Mr. Cutfield was waiting for me; having appointed to meet him, and see Mr. Wicksteed by half past 9. We met accordingly at Hoski's by 10 or a little after; and arranged to have a further meeting that evening at my house; in reference to the cattle station; which Mr. Wicksteed agreed to refer entirely to me, as to the terms on which it ought to be occupied. I was then called on by Capt. King, to sit on the Bench, and hear Mr. Aubry's case with Harriet Foreman; which occupied several hours, examining witnesses, and exposing a budget of most indelicate subjects. I had, in one or two instances, to check Mr. Aubrey for being rather dictatorial in his strain of talking. A child was sworn against him, by the latter; and an order was made on him of 2/- per week for the maintenance of it, to be paid through the Chief Constable, or gaoler. In summing up the evidence, Capt. King asked my opinion; which he said was in accordance with regulations, to ask the opinion of the youngest member; which I declined till the case was resumed, and the whole evidence given; though I had then conceived the whole evidence and witness brought forward were against Aubry; which opinion Wicksteed confirmed, and so did Capt. King; and as no further material witness was produced, the case was decided. In the evening, Mr. Riemensnider, Turton, Wicksteed, and afterwards Mantell and Cutfield had tea with me; and when the rest of the gentlemen left, Messrs. Wicksteed, Cutfield, and I resumed our business affairs, relative to the Station; when Mr. Wicksteed made the following proposals,- That the Block of land which Mr. Cutfield was in treaty for, should be leased to him for a term of 21 years, by paying a sum of 8 per cent interest on the outlay for purchasing the Station, say 4,000 acres at 1/- per acre, £200 interest on which at per cent would be £16, with a right of purchasing and choosing a Block of 300 acres for a home-station for ten years interest, 21 years interest being considered too much; which, at the rate of 1/- would bring it to ten shillings per acre, with a right of purchase at once on those conditions; or a larger sum at a future period; guaranteeing also there should be no interference with Mr. Cutfield, by any other person desirous of stationing there; as he, from a variety of circumstances, had a prior claim, and deserved inducement being held out to him, for paving the way to others. The foregoing case did not therefore require any reference for me to decide between the parties; Mr. Cutfield being allowed time to consider the terms; and really I must say that I consider the terms are such as I should willingly accept under similar circumstances; and nearly, if not altogether, what I should have recommended; though Mr. Cutfield appears to think the terms of Freehold purchase high; but I do not see, in how far, more eligible proposals could be conceded by the Government Agent. Tomorrow, with God's blessing, I intend proceeding to carry out the Governor's instructions of purchasing the Block. My dear Sir, The following were the proposals made by Mr. Wicksteed, in March last, with reference to the Station at Hauranga. That the Block of land should be leased to Mr. Cutfield for a term of 21 years at 8 per cent interest on the outlay or purchase money, with a right of choosing 300 acres for a homestead at about 10/- per acre, and of purchasing at once on these conditions; also guaranteeing there should be no interference with any part of the land by persons desirous of stationing there; as Mr. Cutfield had not only a previous right, but was peculiarly entitled to greater consideration and protection from his having been instrumental in acquiring the Station from the natives; with whom he had been in treaty for some time previous to the purchase being effected by the Government. I remain, my dear Sir, Yours truly, (Signed) Don. McLean. December 2nd. 1847. Taranaki. 15th. March 1847. My dear Sir, I first heard of the serious attack of para-lytic with which you have been affected, by a letter from McDougall, which I received some months ago; and was very sorry indeed to learn that such a sudden and unexpected calamity had befallen you; and should have written to commiserate with you in your sufferings,(as you have done with me, in person, when I was laid up under your roof),- were I not informed that through the attention of your friends, especially Mrs. Anderson, you were fast recovering from your illness; and by a more recent letter from Mr. Cormach, I hear you are going along as well as ever; and I trust the Winter season will not occasion a relapse of such a dangerous complaint. I have been very fortunate in being so well taken care of under your hospitable roof, even though an Hotel, during the severest attack of illness I have had since I left Home; and hope that if I then neglected to acknowledge my sense of your kindness and consideration, that you will now, when maturer reason dictates to me what I then ought to have done, accept my thanks for the obligations I was then under. It gives me pleasure to hear that the old "Cale- -donian" continues to do better than most of the houses at Auckland; and hope non-payment of the small account which I owe its landlady, has not caused any inconvenience; nor would the settlement of it have been so long delayed, did I not look forward to an opportunity of paying it in person at Auckland. Mr. Conroy, acting on your behalf, has applied to me for an amount which I believe considerably exceeds my note of hand. This, however, is easily rectified by refer-ence to the document for the liquidation of which I will forward £20, as early as I possibly can,- certainly not later than the next quarter; when I hope to get a Mission bill to enclose for that amount, as being the surest and safest mode of transmission of the money, overland; and should you stop proceedings till that period, I shall obliged. As I intend to visit Auckland when I can get per-mission, I hope you will allow my box that is in your bedroom, to remain till then. I have not met many of your acquaintances in this part of the country; though there are a few respectable persons at Wanganui, well acquainted with members of your family. Most of the unfortunate settlers who have emigrated there, with respectable sums of money, have nearly exhausted their all; without, as yet, attaining any of the objects for which induced them from their native shores. In hopes that you continue to improve in health and prosperity, Believe me to remain, sincerely yours, (Signed) Don. McLean. To:- W.A. McDonald Esq. Caledonian Hotel. Auckland. Taranaki. 15th. March 1847. Dear Sir, By registered mail, I received your letter of the 22 ult., applying to me, on behalf of Mr. McDonald, for payment of my acknowledgement to Mrs. Anderson, of July 1844; which, I regret to say, it will be impossible for me to remit by this mail; as the postman has exceeded his time, and is obliged to return immediately. I shall, however, make the earliest possible arrangement,-certainly not later that the ensuing quarter - to forward you a Mission order for £20; and hope you will have the kindness to persuade Mr. McDonald to overlook any interest that may be due; as my present supply of cash is very limited. I beg you will accept my thanks for the kind and gentlemanly manner in which you have written to me on this subject; and hope by the fulfilment of my present promise, you will not deem it necessary to take further proceedings against me. In expectation of writing you at greater length very shortly. I remain, dear Sir, Yours truly, (Signed) Don. McLean. To:- J.E. Conroy Esq. Solicitor. Auckland. Taranaki New Plymouth. March 15th. 1847. Sir, I do myself the honor to acquaint you, for the information of His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor, that in pursuance of instructions received from His Ex-cellency, in reference to land purchases in this Pro-vince, on the 9th. inst, with a surveyor, whom I engaged at 10/6 per diem, to survey the external boundaries of a Block of land, 12 miles to the South of the Sugar Loaves, I engaged a party of natives, principally owners of land we are in treaty for, at 1/6 per diem, to cut the boundary line. Some opposition was offered by a body of natives, who were not desirous to dispose of their land; but I do not apprehend that they will continue long to oppose their own interest; as many of them already express a wish to join the surveyor's party. Another surveyor, with a party of Europeans and some of the Police, is cutting lines near the Sugar Loaves, preparatory to laying out the Reserves for the natives in that district. I have called upon Capt. King, to acquaint him that it will be necessary for me, subject to His Excellency's approval, to draw upon him at the expiration of each week, for the amount of pay due to the labourers employed on the survey. COPY. Te Henui. March 30th. 1847. My dear Thatcher, Mr. Bolland has sent me two packets of letters,- one of them addressed to you,- which have been late for the mail; and as the native calls here, I shall enclose both to your care; and perhaps you will have the goodness to see them taxed at Auckland, and mention to Darch that they were not in time for enclosing in the mail; and as it is important they should be forwarded, no doubt Bollard's letter will have explained to you how they are to be disposed of. We heard of your quick and beautiful trip to Nelson, and subsequent visit to Wellington; and calculated from the papers you would have been in Auckland by the 22nd. It is really a pleasure to have such a splendid vessel to cruise about in. I suppose you will have seen Watt and Dorsett at Wellington, and heard the Taranaki news; which is not generally of much interest, except to persons, who, like yourself, have formed an attachment to the place. The Governor's visit has given a deal of confidence to the settlers, and quite paralysed the natives. Sales of landed property amongst the former are now 50 per cent in advance of what they were before his visit. There is naturally a deal of anxiety to have the Land Question settled; and I trust it will not be long till we have acquired a sufficiency to meet the more pressing and immediate wants of the resident land-holders. The boundary at the Sugar Loaves has been carried some distance into the forest, through a beautiful and fertile country; and the survey of the Native Reserve there will be finished in a few days. The natives, tho' at first exceedingly obstinate, are perfectly satisfied with the ample provision that is made for them. They have a nice sea frontage of 80 acres, and 300 of good bush and fern land, some distance back. The Puketapus are as bad as ever; and will not be better till there are plenty of Redjackets to keep them in subordination. They are well-termed, by Symonds, a "blackguardly republic"; where all pretend to exercise authority, without any having the influence to maintain it. I believe they intend opposing our crossing the Waiwakaio river, with the boundary; but it is not likely we shall ask their permission, when prepared to go there; as I conceive they are advancing claims to a larger territory than they ever possessed in that neighbourhood. The labourers, not unlike the fuketapus with their land, thought they could stick out for high wages, and make a grand thing of the Government Survey; but, to their disappointment and surprise, I engaged a party, entirely natives, to go with Carrington, on the Southern Survey; and now I can have those high-minded gents for 2/6 per diem, instead of 4/- as they expected. So much for the introduction of natives to regulate and correct the lahour market. I am glad to hear an equally good effect - independent of the advantages to them-selves - is produced by their being employed on the roads at Wellington. A party of adventurers started to explore the back country, and ascend the Mountain; and I sent a Policeman along with them to see how far the country was available for surveying. But the weather turned out heavy. They did not ascent the Mount; nor have seen much, for their pains. Young Davy and Gillingham were the scientific explorers; and I was quite annoyed that a young boy of their party should have allowed the natives to bounce him out of a few curiosities he collected. I hate to hear of such imposition being practised, and tacitly submitted to. I believe there is very little more in the shape of news. Bolland has purchased Aubrey's section for £250, crops and all. Will you have the kindness to remember me to Dr. Sinclair; and tell him I shall write him by next mail; also my respects to Symonds, and with best wishes to yourself. believe me to remain, yours very truly, To:- (Signed) Don. McLean. F. Thatcher Esq. Private Secretary. Auckland. copy. Te Henui. April 2nd. 1847. My dear Sir, Aperahama was in such a hurry to return that I had not time to answer your letter of 30th. ult, by him; and as I am more culpable than you for negligence in corresponding, my only apology is that it would not be so, did I not intend long ere this, to have paid you a visit at Warea; but so many things intervene, that it is seldom we have the full control of our actions, whatever may be our intentions. Wit reference to our proposed correspondence, I feel very much pleased with the selection you have made for a subject. Historical writing is attended with the difficulties you mention; and being such an extensive field for enquiry, if we at all entered upon it, we should be obliged, for want of books, to confine ourselves to a review of the Bible History, as we always have that invaluable Book by us, for reference; and our views of its sacred contents might be more fully developed and enlarged. Without further delay, I will now endeavour to reply to your question, as to "What is Religion?" As I know you will treat with indulgence, my humble endeavours to conduct a correspondence on a subject which it is my desire to have a correct knowledge of, by interchange of thought with a learned Divine, for whom, and the many enlightened members of his persuasion in the country he belongs to, I have the greatest veneration and esteem. 1st. Religion may be considered apart from Christianity; and therefore involves a wide scope of disposition or principle, with which all human beings are endowed, whether Heathen or Christian; and consists in itself, of a belief in the various systems of faith or worship, practised or believed in by the several, creeds, sects, or denominations of the human race; and presuming that you will allow that it combines as many various principles, it may be better, for the sake of regularity, to confine ourselves to a review or investigation of Christian religion; and afterwards of the various systems it comprehends. The first, or initiatory principles of Christian religion, is the belief in one true God of infinite power and wisdom; under whose control the whole system of animate or inanimate creation is guided and directed; and whose existence or power requires no further evidence or proof than what we already possess. It is the admission and belief of the existence of an over-ruling Providence, that constitutes the basis of true religious Christianity; and however varied the forms of worship of such as have faith in those general principles, are, they may be all included under the head of Christian religionists,. Having now briefly expressed my ideas on this subject, I will not prolong my present letter till I have again heard from you, and ascertained your views on what I have advanced, leaving it to you, as my senior, to challenge and commence the warfare; and hope that we may both have sufficient time to conduct a correspondence that will be so interesting, and tend so much to the developement of our views. I am astonished to hear of Mr. Strop passing by without calling. I never heard of him till I received your letter. He will be, no doubt, pleased with the comfort of your present position, to what it was at Motukaramu. Mr. Morgan, in a letter I received from him, has been enquiring after you. I extract the part in reference to yourself. "When you see Mr. Riemenschnider, please to inform him that I have been, for some months past, expecting him to pay us a visit. I sent a horse to meet him at Wawarua, 37 miles distant from here, in October last, according to the arrangement I made in reply to his note" No more at present, but believe me to remain always yours affectionately, (Signed) Don. McLean. Taranaki. 13th. April 1847. Sir, I do myself the honor to acquaint you, for the information of His Excellency, the Lt. Governor, that the survey of the Block of land to the South of the Sugar Loaves, is nearly completed; and with the exception of a small patch on the Northern boundary, shown on a sketch from recollection, which I herewith enclose, the natives clearly understand that they have fully conceded their right, and granted possession of the surveyed land, in accordance with His Excellency's terms; and that they are to receive payment for the same in installments, as instructed by him; including the reserved patch in the purchase, before the last amount is handed over to them. Mr. Ligar, the Surveyor-General, who arrived here on the 9th. inst by the Brig, having seen the plans and instructions to the surveyors, visited the Station with me; and afforded every assistance and information as to the conduct of the survey, both there and at the settlement. The Native Reserves at Moturoa are surveyed; and I have been obliged to include two sections chosen by Europeans; and I expect the same will have to be done for the natives, in order to give them contiguous Blocks. A surveyor and party is at present cutting the lines of the Reserve for the natives living in town; and after that is finished he is to commence the external boundary to the North of the Waiwakaio river; which the Puketapu tribe seem determined to oppose. I went with Mr. Ligar yesterday evening to tell them that we intended commencing on that line, and should wish them to be all present some day this week, to see how far their right extended, and determine the boundary between them and the Ngamotu tribe, most of whom have agreed to the Governor's proposals. I have received an advance of £20 from Capt. King, for the labourers employed on the survey; who are all paid up to the 31st ult.; and I shall soon have to apply to him for the first payment to the natives, from whom land purchases are made. I have, etc. (unsigned copy.) Taranaki New Plymouth. April 15th. 1847. Sir, Since my letter of the 13th. inst. in reference to the land question, the natives of Puketapu have come in a body to determine the boundary between themselves and the Ngamotu tribe; and have fixed it on a line of road 100 yds North of the Waiwakaio River; which formed the boundary of the small Block of 3500 acres; and beyond which boundary their right to which is both disputed and doubtful; they are determined to resist any survey operations; and have erected marks which they have "tapued" and named after the most troublesome of their tribe; with a view, no doubt, of intimidating the Europeans, and more friendly natives, from interfering with their pretended secresy or tapu; which is neither acknowledged by native custom or any other right for a conquered tribe of this country to assume. Of late they have been excessively troublesome; and though no real act of aggression is committed, they shew symptoms of a desire to continue their annoyances; and have warned the settlers in their neighbourhood to desist their operations, and move in to the purchased district; as they wanted to have their part of the country free of Europeans, in case they should have a fight with the soldiers. The natives of the town participate to some extent in a similar feeling, and are most difficult to please, in the Reserve proposed for them; and even wished to prevent the survey from going on till all their wants were aceeded to. This, however, will, I hope, be soon overcome; and as we have no downright interruption, we may succeed with the Reserves and survey of the Ngamotulands, by taking the Wawaikaio river as our boundary for the present; and giving up a few sections chosen by settlers and absentees, on which they have cultivated, as Reserves for them. By reference to a map of the surveyed land in this district, it will be seen that difficulties will, in various instances, arise from the impossibility of avoiding chosen sections, where large contiguous areas are reserved for the natives; and however desirous the resident settlers are to facilitate the settlement of the question, by giving up such sections as may be required in making those Reserves, they still expect to have an ample compensation of land in exchange; and which I would take the liberty of recommending should be granted them, in the best disposable localities; if the Government reserve this right, independent of the New Zealand Company; and I should like to be informed whether His Excellency would instruct my carrying out these arrangements in conjunction with Capt. King; to whom I have already referred this subject. There is a report by some natives, who have arrived from Wellington by the Brig, that the Ngatiawa tribe of Waikanae and Cook's Straits, are making preparations to move up here in a strong body; and though I presume this intelligence, if correct, will have been reported by the authorities at Waikanae and Wellington, I still consider it of such importance to be known to His Excellency,- as it is a step that might involve so much more difficulty and complication in the arrangements which we are endeavouring to carry out, to the Land Question at this District. (unsigned copy.) (undated.) Sir, As His Excellency the Lieut- Governor is shortly expected to the Southern settlements; and as he will most probably see you at Wellington before he comes hp here, I have the honor to request that you will inform him that the Puketapu tribe are strenuously opposed to come to any arrangements to dispose of their lands; and have threatened, at a Meeting held by them on the 13th. inst., to prevent any surveying operations in a Northerly direction, beyond the boundary of the 3,500 acres; they have also warned Messrs. Flight, Cooke, and a European named Wells, to discontinue their occupation of the land they hold there; and remove into the purchased Block. We have also considerable trouble and some petty annoyances with the natives living around us; who, to a great extent are as bad as the Puketapus; though, from their numbers, they are less formidable; and their occassional feuds with that tribe keep them on better terms with us; however involuntary a portion of them are, to yield their assumed possession of the lands they claim. I have written, by way of Auckland, to inform His Excellency that another tract of land to the Southward of the Sugar Loaves, and of considerable extent, is offered for sale by the natives; and as it is well adapted for cattle stations,- or indeed, from its quality - if it could be easily approached by roads - for cultivation. I should like to know if His Excellency desires I should negotiate with the natives for the same; and on what conditions,- in case it should meet his approval - to make the purchase. Should I transfer it to the New Zealand Company's Agent,- whether as an equivalent in part of Mr. Spain's award; or a general grant of land in favour of the Company, by the Government? [unsigned copy.] (undated) Sir, I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 23rd. ult., and to inform you, in reply, that the amount of compensation money awarded by Capt. Fitz Roy to the absentees of the Ngamotu tribe, for the small block of land of 3,500, purchased by him, was £100; which I have not received on their behalf; but Capt. King was instructed to furnish that amount; which has, since then, been expended for other purposes on the public service. Herewith, I enclose a copy of the amounts placed at Capt. King's disposal, in November 1844, for adjusting the Land Question, amounted to £2,000; a great portion of which sum has been expended as compensation to the settlers removed from Mongaraka. The amount already paid to the resident natives, as shewn by the enclosed copy of a deed, is ----; there being a sum of £50 still due; which they are shortly to receive. The principal absentee owners, that I am aware have a claim here, are named in margin, opposite their respective places of residence. (unsigned copy.) Taranaki. April 17th. 1847. My dear Sir, As we have heard by the last mail from Auckland that His Excellency is shortly expected to the Southern settlements, and is likely to call at Wellington before he comes here, I should feel much obliged by your informing him that the Puketapu tribe living at the Hua, have determined, at a Meeting held by them on the 13th. inst, not to let the boundary lines extend in their direction beyond a road North of the Waiwakaio River, which formed the boundary of the small block of 3.500 acres. They have been also most troublesome of late; and though no real aggression is committed by them, they strenuously oppose acceeding to any of His Excellency's terms for the settlement of the land question; and have warned the settlers outside the Block, to discontinue their farming, and leave the lands they are occupying. The natives of the Ngamotu tribe have also given some trouble with their Reserves; but as yet offer no direct interruption; and the survey of their district is steadily progressing. I intend going down the Coast this afternoon, to meet some Taranaki natives who are anxious to dispose of a tract of country near the settlement, considerably larger in extent than the Block we have already surveyed to the South of the Sugar Loaves; and I shall await His Excellency's instructions to negotiate for the same, and have it surveyed. I remain my dear Sir, Yours very respectfully, (Signed) Don. McLean. To:- His Honor, Major Richmond. Wellington. Taranaki. New Plymouth 17th. April 1847. Sir, I do myself the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 23rd. ulto. in reference to the amount of compensation fixed upon for E.Pani, and other absentee claimants of the Ngatiawa tribe, for land purchased at this settlement in 1844; and to inform you that the amount intended by Capt. Fitzroy to meet the demands of the absentee claimants was One Hundred Pounds (£100); and that a sum of £337.16.9 was apportioned to the resident natives, with a promise of a further payment of £50 in cattle, as shewn by a memo from the late Governor to Capt. King, a copy of which I enclose, together with a memo of the respective residents, and names of the principal absentee claimants, to whom I was to pay the authorised sum by drawing on the Sub-Treasurer in the event of their returning in a body to this district. From their not having done so, I never applied for the money till the receipt of your letter, when Capt. King informed me that he had no funds at present at his disposal for that purpose. I have the honour to remain Your most obedient humble servant (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- His Honour The Superintendent of the Southern Division. Te Henui. April 22nd. 1847. Dear Madam, I hear, from Mrs. Wicksteed, that you are considerably annoyed by old Erangi cultivating so close to your section; and as there are a party of his friends going up there to-day to assist him in clearing, I send the bearer to assure you that you need not be under the slightest alarm as to their having any other intentions; and I shall use every endeavour as soon as possible to induce Erangi to leave there altogether. I remain Dear Madam, Yours truly, (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- Mrs. Creagh. Taranaki. 24th. April 1847. My dear Mr. Taylor, The "Catherine Johnston" has been here from Wanganui; and Mr. Taylor writes that they are all well; their greatest anxiety being respecting yourself; at which I do not wonder, from knowing the hardships you contended with on your last Winter trip through the Taupo country; but you have been much more fortunate in your weather this time; and I trust you have not been less so in the objects of your very important mission. I hear that my young friend, Cecil, is gone with Major Richmond in the "Caliope", and is going from there to New South Wales. The poor little fellow must have been considerably alarmed; as I am told by Willie Watt, who is here, that they were nearly wrecked somewhere off Wellington. Cecy is such a sharp boy that I have no doubt he will give his mother an accurate account of the narrow escape, and the whole particulars; and will, no doubt, remember it through future life as an important event on his first withdrawal from his parents' roof. An unfortunate accident took place a few days ago, from the shot of a pistol, belonging to a midshipman, who carried it about, having unintentionally gone off, and lodged in the head of one of Mawai's boys, that happened to touch it in passing by. The natives, as you may expect, were greatly excited, and set up a yell for the Teira; expecting every moment something was to happen to them, and that the soldiers were going to shoot them all. The boy is not dead; and it is hoped he may recover. I believe the natives wanted to have the middy as a hostage, to ensure the sound and safe return of their tangata. The time that elapsed before an explanation of the cause was given, must have been rather a critical moment, and one that very much required your presence. I believe that everything is now perfectly quiet. I am busily engaged with the Land Question; and feel very anxious to get through with it so far as to enable me to visit Wanganui, if the Governor is determined on my going there. But unfortunately, as you are aware, we have a most unruly set of natives to deal with; and my progress is, in consequence, very much retarded. But I trust that the display of a few Redcoats will bring them to terms; and that His Excellency will have them here before long. However averse I am to either cruelty or oppression, I certainly would advocate the application of the rod where it is absolutely deserved; unless the sight of it might keep subordination and good order. I must now revert from other subjects, to trouble you with a matter of business; which, if it will not put you to any inconvenience, will be doing me a great favour; which I trust it may lie in my power sooner or later to return. As you told me some time ago that you had money at the North you wished to place in the hands of Government, if you could get 8 1/2% for it, I should be very glad to take £100 of it, and allow you that interest for one or two years, as you might desire; which sum I should wish to be paid in Auckland, either to Mr. McDougall of Fort Street; or Mr. McDonald of the Caledonian Hotel, who will purchase some things and settle little matters for me at Auckland; and my principle reason for asking the favour of you is to save the trouble of remitting to Auckland; as we receive nothing but silver; and to enable me to make some investments in stock; on which I could give you security,- the increase of which would fully repay me the interest and my own trouble. (unsigned copy) I am desirous, now that I am likely to be more settled, to make a small investment in stock; but am rather short of money at present for the purpose; as I am obliged to remit some to Auckland, to settle small accounts; and have things purchased that I cannot get here; and should esteem it as a particular favour your obliging me with a sum of £60 to a £100, to be left with either of the two parties to whom I will enclose a letter, which you will please return next mail, in case of not having the amount. I should, as a matter of business, besides convenience, willingly allow at the rate of 8 1/2% interest for any length of time we might fix; as the increase of cattle would repay; and if you wished to let a larger sum at the same rate, we could arrange for that at Wanganui; the above amount being all I wish to pay at Auckland; for which, in case of fluctuating markets, I would give some additional security to that on the investment. My reason for making this request of you is that it strikes me you have funds you desire to lay out to interest at the North; and I am satisfied you would be willing to oblige me with them; when it would be the means of advancing my prospects, and of gradually rendering me more independent of my Government income. Expecting him back this way, note of introduction to Dr. Sinclair. Taranaki New Plymouth April 24th. 1847. My dear Sir, Allow me to introduce to you, the Rev. R. Taylor, of Wanganui,- a gentleman with whom I have had the pleasure of being acquainted since my residence in this part of the country; and who, I am sure, you will be very much interested with, from the information he can give you on the Botanical resources of the country, and various other matters relating to shells, and natural curiosities that you are so desirous of having a knowledge of I remain my dear Sir. Yours very truly, (Signed) Don. McLean. To:- A. Sinclair Esq. Colonial Secretary. My dear Sir, If the Rev. Mr. Taylor, of Wanganui, should leave you a sum of £60 or £100, on my behalf,- would you have the goodness to dispose of it for me, as follows, by paying,- Mr. McDonald's bill, somewhere about £20. Benjamin Newel, at Rooney's, £15. Hughes, the grocer, if not paid, £5. The remaining value I will write about by the next mail, and shall esteem as a favour your attention to the payment of the foregoing accounts, the receipts for which in full of all demands, you will please enclose to me. I should write more fully; but as the mail is closing, you will excuse this hasty note, and believe me to remain, Yours very truly, (Signed) Don. McLean. April 26th. 1847. Mr. McDonald's account, if he does not receive this letter himself, may be paid to Mr. Conroy. (Signed) D. McLean. Taranaki 26th. April 1847. Sir, Herewith I have the honour to enclose duplicate extracts of authority from the Superintendent of the Southern Division, dated 18th. April 1846, to accompany my salary Abstracts to the Treasurer's office at Auckland, together with His Excellency the Lieut. Governor's reply, in reference to my being allowed forage money for a horse. I have the honour, etc., (Signed) Donald McLean. To H.King Esq. Sub-Treasurer. A Meeting with the Natives of Taranaki held at Tapuwai, on Monday 26th. April 1847. An elderly man, named first spoke; and addresing himself to the Governor, whom he was aware was not present, said,- "I want to give you my land, Governor, as a head-covering and full suit of clothing for you," - and tearing up (with evident emotion descriptive of his determination of purpose), a piece of his dog-skin mat, which he threw to the ground, saying,- "There, I never will take this back again," meaning that he never would take his land back again. said,- "He ingoa Mokai ko Potiki tana ka riro Kia Teni rana ko Mqakarini",- meaning the name of a pet or slave, Potikitana, is given to Mr. Carrington and McLean. E Kuri, throwing out a spittle, said,- "that never returns to me;" and tearing up a few pieces of his mat,"that you are to have", meaning,- "the land I give you, I part with as freely as that; but still retain some for myself." said,- "I cannot, afterwards, what I am now giving up to you." "My land I am now unbinding, and giving up to the Governor." replied to my enquiring as to the boundaries, saying,- "I shall do nothing about them, but give up all the land to the Governor"; and asking all present if they were agreed, they replied in the affirmative twice. , "I give up my land as a hat for the Governor." or ,- "This is giving up the land to the Governor." , in the same strain, and ,- "Giving up his land to the Governor." , "I am consenting to give up a portion of our great progenitor, or forefather, the land, as a hat for the Governor." , "My land I give up as a shirt and hat for the Governor, to be sacred to him for ever." ,- "Giving up this land to the Governor." ,- "This is my word to my friend Carrington,- I give up my land to the Governor." ,- "This land is cut off for the Governor." ,- "This is an unbinding to you and the Governor." ,- "I give up my land to you and the Governor," ,- "I give up my land to you and the Governor, foreever and ever." ,- "My Punama that sticks in my ear,- or otherwise, my land, I give up to Carrington and the Governor, till it rots or decays, and to be yours for ever and ever." ,- "This is my mother's milk that has fed me while I was young, which I now part with to the Governor." ,- "The Governor is to have the land for ever and ever ,- "Listen; turn your ears. This is Porokahurangi, my "mere" or greenstone, that I am unbinding for you. I am giving up my head cover to put over yours, and you are to keep it for the Governor, for ever and ever and ever." ,- "My land will never return to me. It is given up to you. If ever I again return, I shall be "he" or acting wrong." ,- "This is the milk of my fathers, my land, that I am giving up to you, Carrington, as a head-cover, which will never return to me." ,- "This is a head-covering for you, McLean, on which I have no further right; neither shall you have, on what I reserve for myself." "This is our conveyance of land for the Governor, for ever and ever." (married to a Puketapu woman),- "This is my consent, to give up my land that is being given up. I am dark about it, and give it up for ever and ever." made a few remarks that the speaker was to keep to his subject. - "Saluting you, friends; I have nothing to say. What should I say? I agree to what your fathers (Robert) have said. Why should I oppose them? I have nothing to say." ,- "My wetiki I give up my land to the Governor and E Teni." ,- "This is the milk of my fathers, I now give as a head-covering for the Governor, for ever and ever." ,- "Listen, all of you, to your own words. All your words are in one strain, or on the same road. My words are the same as the rest, and are they right?" I answered, as he addressed himself to me, in the affirmative. "Listen, McLean and Carrington,- a portion of ours is made "Tapu" or sacred to the Governor; and if I should ever attempt to trespass on land that is made sacred to the Governor, I should be wrong. You remain on your side of the boundary; and we, the Maoris, on our side. It will be for the future generations to see whether we trspass on you, or you on us. We shall never encroach on your side till the end, till our race is no more." "Listen to the boundaries. First Southern boundary commenoes at stream; from there to ; from ; from ; from ; from ; from the to ; to ; to ; to ; to ; to ; from thence to the ; and continues along the banks of the river inland." , young Policeman, son to Erangi, was interrupted by some conversation that arose as to his being, considered the party on whom the finishing up of the Meeting devolved. The house does not decide as to whether he or another young person should undertake the task. "Listen, my grandfathers and parents. There is no good in division or strife; if we do things as they ought to be done, all will be straight. What causes evil is when we give up anything to Europeans, we desire to have it back again. I know the European customs; they are good. I have seen them. What, my fathers, is the good of strife? Let us live as one. Why should we return to evil? I will not do so. Let your thoughts be good and straight. If we quarrel with a dog, he will snarl; if you go out in the angry sea, it will destroy and swamp you. "We do not know that the Europeans agree to our proposals. "They never give but one payment for land. My head cover, or Potai, is not of to-day; it is of olden times; it was the covering of my fathers, that I am now giving up to the Governor. "If I give you my shoes," addressing himself to me,- "if I give you my shoes, and afterwards go and take them off your feet, I will be wrong. The land goes to ; from thence to ; and as far as the Europeans claim or claimed inland,- (that is in Spain's Block)." Towards the end young Bob ordered the door to be open, to give the utmost publicity to the proceedings; and asked all the men, women, and children if they agreed that Okurukuru should be the boundary; to which they all replied with a thrilling reverberating voice,- "Yes." "To have and to hold it?" "Yes." "All the way to Ngamotu?" "Yes." "Sacred to him for ever?" "Yes." "Mi atu ki aia?" "Yes." "Mana atu kiaia?" "Yes." "A forefather for him?" "Yes." "For ever and ever and ever?" "Yes." Out of a Meeting of upwards of 170 natives, there was not a single dissenting voice. The Meeting dispersed, and had some food; and desultory respecting matters they wished me to explain,-such as going to the Mountain; whereabouts whaleboats or others landing at their places. If Pukeko should be taken as payment for Europeans killed there?