Militia Office. Gisborne Jan. 11/75 Sir D. McLean, Dear Sir, I have nothing importance to communicate. I think my last letter had reference to Mr. Hardy's attack upon me. He has retracted through the papers and has personally asked me to forgive him. I have done so willingly. I'm going along the Coast with Mr. Locke tomorrow. I think his visit very opportune and willl be fruitful of good and will serve to allay alarm about lands. Ngatiporou held a runanga a fews back relative to land matters from private sources I learn that a deal of abusive language was indulged in against Ropata, who became very indignant when informed of it. He has returned to the coast to call another runanga for purpose of bringing turbulent agitators to attention. I shall most heartily co-operate with Mr. Locke assisting to se aside reserves for the Natives as I think it the surest means of opening up the country, as many of the deep thinking natives will withdraw their opposition to sale or letting, knowing that a sufficient is secured for maintenance of their people. No matter how they may dispose of their surplus lands. I have the honor to be, Yours most faithfully, T.W. Porter, Adjt.