Wellington, 17th. April, 1871. Sir, I take the liberty of informing you that as far as I am able to judge the Force is in a very satisfactory state. I have just received intimation that Sub. Inspr. McDonell's commission has been cancelled, I am not sorry that his connection with the Force has ceased because he has been very useless and indeed a discredit to the Establishment. Inspector Pitt arrived here in the Lord Ashley brig. It was not considered advisable to enter upon his case seeing that the decision in Major Withers case was sufficient. As the Force, by resignations and discharges, is coming down very near its authorized strengh I would respect-fully ask whether I may not again commence enrolling more especially as Lt.Col. ule informs me that he will require a reinforcement soon. There are several application from promising men (young colonists whose families are settled in both islands) whom I would wish very much to see in the Force.