Copy of letter to His Excellency, the Governor-in-Chief, from Donald McLean, dated 25th. August 1849 (N.B) (Part of this letter appears to be missing.) Position and extent and general description of the claims of distinct tribes, which might, at some future time, be of considerable service. Hoping I may be excused for the freedom I have used in introducung so many subjects to Your Excellency's notice, I remain, dear Sir, yours most respectfully, (Signed) Donald McLean. 4. To encourage a friendly disposition towards the settlers residing on the new purchase, I visited the Ngatirangitatuhi villages, on the South bank of the Rangitikei, and was glad to find the natives willing to assist the Europeans, by supplying potatoes, corn, and other produce, on reasonable terms; the young men gladly offering their services for any employmnent in the shape of house-building and fencing, the settlers might require.