New Plymouth October 13 1856. My dear Sir, By the "Gipsy" I forward the enclosed letters which were intended for the Steamer but the very rough weather prevailing here renders communication with her uncertain. The missing lead has not yet been discovered nevertheless I expect the weight to be made up if even by bullets. Hone Ropiha acted well in this matter and deserves every praise, should you be writing to him shortly it would be as well to allude to the circumstance. He is agitating a general peace with greater spirit than before owing to his knowledge that Ngatiruanui approves of his proceedings but much uncertainty exists respecting the sequel. Katatore is blamed for not having accepted the proposals of peace when the dispute was almost entirely confined to themselves. Nikorima having lost men has not taken the pakanga out of Arama Karaka's hands and so the matter stands. I amhowever glad to say that from my personal observations matters are assuming a more satisfactory appearance than was expected. That ominous ekore e mutu leads me to suspect that a brush may take place when the planting season is over which now occupies their whole time and attention. Faithfully yours, H. Halse. To:- McLean Esq. I leave Wharepu this day and take possession of a room in R. Brown's house on the beach now in possession of the Govt., at the request of our Superintendent. He takes possession of my brother's office who in his turn takes mine, and so much for that. The Supt. again informed me that the will be handed over to me at the end of this month but I have not yet received official information of his intention. H. H.