True Copy. (signed) J. Stevens. Te Teko July 23rd. 1870. Sir, I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your telegram of the 21st. inst. saying that complaints have been made that Capt. Mair and myself have been advising the natives against surrendering at Wairoa. I beg strongly to urge that a ''Court of Enquiry'' be instructed to sift the matter to the bottom, without which I should be unable to clear myself of this scandalous and malicious report, which, if left unnoticed, would seriously damage my character as an Officer; and if true, render me unfit to hold the position I do. I hear from private sources that this report has been freely circulated about Napier. I can but give my most unqualified denial of the charge, and request that the Government will have the matter thoroughly investigated. I have forwarded a copy of your telegram to Captain Mair, as the charges contained therein, reflect on him as well as myself. (Signed) George Preece, Capt. Commanding Te Teko. To:- The Hon. The Defence Minister Wellington