() Napier September 14th. 1869. Dear Sir, I received your telegram, and am going to Taupo as soon as Mr. Ormond tells me. You, of course, will have heard all the news about affairs at Taupo. I am sorry now I was not up there at the commencements. The question respecting the Superintendancy has been quietly settled. I don't know whether I should resign or not; and there is no Member for Wairoa elected. I registered your purchase from Tareha, and have done all I possibly could about the mortgaging or purchase of the rest, also the Ngatarawa block. Of course you know old Horawira is dead. I have spoken to both Hamlin and Kinross about the question. It is very necessary to get the Ngatarawa block, as there are fresh rumours of gold having been found in the Ngaruroro, and that neighbourhood, brought down from the Kaimanawa ranges. Most likely it is true. Affairs at Taupo and the Interior are becoming more serious every day. I hope all will turn out successfully, for everything rests upon that point. For myself - if we cannot give Te Kooti's people a good blow at once, I should not be sorry to see him out of the King Country. There might be less chance of embroiling the King party. if there still remains a chance of coming to an understanding with them. I wish the Lands Court could sit soon, for the rest of the East Coast up to the East Cape, and settle that question off. We are having beautiful weather here; rather too dry. Mr. Cox goes to Taupo with me. I remain, dear Sir, Yours truly (Signed) S. Locke. To:- D. McLean Esq.