13th November 1860 Wellington Sirs, Herewith I have the honor to hand you a true copy of a letter from four Native Chiefs of Heretaunga directed to some Natives resident at Otaki and its vicinity. The original was brought over land to the Manihera a native chief residing at Papawai, Wairarapa by him handed to Mr. Hastwell the Wairarapa Carrier to post in Wellington or forward by private hand if there was an opportunity of doing so, He (Mr. H.) calling at my office this day on business requested me to forward it. I, seeing something different to the usual style of Maori letters and noting also the names to whom it is directed, bearing in mind also the contumacious tone of the natives generally and feeling also that important information might be obtained. I opened the letter and accompanying is a Copy, and I trust that you will think with me that the end justifies the means. The purport of the letter is so glaring that I refrain from making any comment upon it, and hope that you will not allow the breach of faith of which I have been guilty to work to my prejudice. I have the honor to be Sir Your most obedient Servant, William N. Searancke District Commissioner To:-- D. McLean Esq. Chief Commissioner Auckland