Napier. 10th. November 1868. Dear Biggs, I am anxious to hear how you are getting on at Poverty Bay; and whether your scouts have any information respecting the movements of the Hau Hau prisoners. The expedition from Wairoa returned from Wataroa, without following up the enemy's position as intended. All that has been done amounts to obtaining proof of the murder of the scouts at Wataroa. I should like to know if anything can be done from your side, and what would you propose? The Ngatiporou will soon tire of inaction; and now that the Napier natives have returned, they are not in sufficient strength to attack by themselves, unless a combination can be formed at Poverty Bay. How many reliable natives have you got? The natives of the Wairoa have gone over in considerable numbers to Kooti. Not that action has been taken by the Government, with other tribes, I think those who adhere to us will not be so doubtful as they have been. The Poverty Bay natives have certainly behaved upon the whole much better than expected. The papers will give you the news from the West Coast. Unfortunately we have met with another repulse, and serious loss. We cannot afford more reverses. I trust that whatever is done on this Coast will be so arranged as to insure success. If not we may have a state of things almost as bad as what we now have, and have had, for 8 years on the West Coast; but I trust not. Do not delay the ''St. Kilda'' longer than you can help. I remain Yours very truly, (Signed) Donald McLean. If you wish anything telegraphed to Wellington, I will get it done for you. To:- Major Biggs. Poverty Bay.