Turanganui December 6th. 1868 My dear Sir, The ''Ahuriri'', I see, is just in again; and though no letters have come ashore yet, I will devote a few spare minutes to writing a few lines to you, as I suppose she will be off again this afternoon. There is not much to report since yesterday. The Hau Haus are now, I suppose, going on their way, as there is no one now in pursuit. Hotene and Ropata have both been obliged to fall back, both being unwell; and of course the ''iwi'' will not do much good without them. They attacked the Hau Haus position on Friday, and occupied one of their rifle pits, with a loss of two killed, and five wounded. The Hau Haus afterwards tried to re-take the rifle pit, but were beaten back, and left seven of their number dead on the ground; one being Karepa, son of Tamihana Ruatapu. I understand that all have arrived, or on the way, to Patutahi; and that the Native troops mean to take up their quarters at Oweta; where'', I suppose they will loot houses, etc., until they have rested themselves. This, however, is only rumour. What the next step will be, it is difficult to say. There are great authorities now on the ground, and I suppose they are now laying their plans, if they have not done so already. I sent a letter to Hotene yesterday, and Henare Potae did the same, to urge him and his people to keep on, and co-operate with Col. Whitmore; however disagreeable such a course might be to their feelings; and at all events, not to let the Hau Haus gain any advantage through any differences in our camp. It is said that there were none but fighting men in this last position, and that all the encumbrances had been sent on before. I suppose Kooti and Te Waru are now both safe at Puketapu. If I can hear anything more in time to send you word, I will add it afterwards. Meanwhile, believe me Yours very truly (Signed) W.L. Williams.