New Plymouth March 1st. 1852. Dear Sir, Up to the present time the case of cattle wounding remains a mystery and I see no hope of clearing it up satisfactorily - unfortunately some Europeans have set the example in the several cases of horse shooting and we cannot be surprised either at the act, or the secrecy adopted supposing the injury was inflicted by a native. I am under orders for Tatara tomorrow to see natives in possession of land within that block and It is a pity our R.M. does not understand that to negotiate with savages is an undertaking of difficulty. If you conduct yourself towards them with politeness, deference and gentleness, they set it down to weakness and fear, and repay your humanity with insolence, and if you behave towards them with a high hand, things are soon brought to extremities, and you have to repress force with force. What force is there in this settlement? I am summoned to Police Office in common with others v. Merrett. 12 oclock, inquiry adjourned till 10 oclock tomorrow morning. Yours faithfully, H. Halse.