Tapuaehararu Taupo June 7th. 1869 My dear Sir, I only received your letter 8th. May, yesterday. I wrote to you on the 22nd. May, after returning from the fruitless expedition into the Urewera country. The natives here do not seem to think much of Tawhiao's meeting, at Hangatiki- and nothing is talked of now but the Troops that are to be stationed at Taupo. Col. St. John is now here, fixing on a place for a camp. I am with him to assist in pointing out the best positions. This step is the right direction, and, I believe, has always been your idea. I hope by the time this reaches you, that you will have the completing it. I think that you will find that the Officers of the Colonial Forces will be glad to exchange the rule. I know that I, for one, will. There is really nothing of sufficient importance, to report to you. I dare say that you may see the wonderful newspaper reports, but, as you know, they are rarely true. Believe me very sincerely yours (Signed) J. St. George To:- His Honour Donald McLean.