Raglan June 17th. 1873. My dear Sir, Hone Wetere has paid this place two visits since you called at Kawhia, and tells me that he asked Tapihana the other day what his thoughts were Tapihana replied that he had all along been urging on King the proclaiming of a war, but had been over-ruled; and instead of consenting to his open warfare, they had practised these murderous attacks, and killed unoffending people. Consequently he was disgusted with them, and was determined to see you here in the event of his hearing you were coming, to again express himself to you in similar terms to that which he used at Kawhia. Hone Wetere leads me to understand that neither himself nor Tapihana will be opposed to the opening of Kawhia. Maneho, who controls the Ngatimohuta side of this harbour, is the difficulty. Hone tells me that it is his intention, with Tapihana to assist him, to talk to Maneha, and endeavour to procure his consent. Hone also tells me that in the event of Mr. Mackay's coming over here, he and Tapihana will come to Aotea to meet him. Mr. Morgan from Alexandra has been trying to frighten the natives at Aotea, by telling them that the Government were sending a Man-of-War into Kawhia harbour; that he was to go there upon its arrival; and another reason he gave, was to avoid being taken for the Militia. All Tapihana's people are at Aotea, building a house at Hone te One's settlement. This looks well. I would rather see Tapihana meet you than Mr. Mackay. Do you think I should be acting wrongly if I cross over to the other side of Aotea, and on to Kawhia, when things take a more settled turn that they are at present? Of course I shall not think of going there unless asked. There is a box of apples here for you. I expected the "Luna" to take it on her return from Manukau, but she did not call. I will send it up to One-hunga by next cutter. Hoping you are well I am My dear Sir Yours very faithfully (Signed) R.J. Bush. To:- Hon. D. McLeanWellington.