Napier 30th November, 1868 Dear Sir, I am in receipt of your letter of the 20th Inst. by Lieut. Russell. I consider it most necessary that communication with Tauranga should be kept up at the present time and shall urge the subject on the consideration of Ministers I feel anxious to see the Ripario cruising between here and Tauranga and I believe it is in contemplation by the Governor to ask Captn. Montgomerie of the Blanche to aid in punishing the perpetrators of the Poverty Bay Massacre. I telegraphed today to Wellington to let the St. Kilda call at Tauranga with Lt.Russell and take on any despatches from you to Auckland. I expect a Minister here tomorrow and will refer the subject of communication with Tauranga to him. I hope Archdeacon and Mrs. Browne are well and I beg you will remember me to Colonel Harrington. Lieut. Russell will convey the latest news from here. The Native forces have been so far successful at Poverty Bay. Judge Johnston was delighted when I told him by telegraph received via Nelson that you were at Tauranga -- he was here on circuit at the time. I remain, Yours faithfully, Donald McLean