8th July 1860 My dear Sir, I have sent you by this Post Vouchers of expences which I have paid and which I suppose I must look to you for reimbursement. Things are quiet here tho I have this day heard a report about the sable gentlemen objecting to the erection of a Stockade at the Hutt. I have enquired about it among the Natives and believe that there is no truth in it beyond their saying that it implies a distrust on our part and but no threat. The Governor's address is admirable and most clearly by implication places before the natives his ideas and views. It is kind, clear and firm I hope you will send me down some Maori copies of the address by next steamer. By the bye the Steamer Swan is seized at the instance of some Melbourne Creditor who appear to have been done by Mr. Kirkwood but will run as usual, every thing is very dull, jail quite full. Luxford and Ling (Butchers) shutup and Burns in possession, half the people laid up with Influenza etc. Collective wisdom running about full of business preparatory to going to Auckland and prepared to make a serious attack on the Native Department. I have not succeeded in completing the Plan of the Wairarapa (waiting for all the authentic documents etc) but will certainly have everything ready by next steamer. I have been laid up with a bad cold for some time which has caused a slight delay, the report etc. is all ready I have taken enlarged and general views in writing it - without in any way entering into particulars. Stewart is busy plan drawing but I await your instructions about him. Mr. C. and Mrs. Cooper are still here former on leave, enjoying themselves. Fraser and I start on a complete survey of all reserves on the east Coast directly Wairarapa Plan is completed. I saw Mr. Strang this morning and never saw him looking better got quite over his cold etc. and very cheerful. Natives very sulky about here unwilling to talk and have a report about second engagement at Taranaki, but no particulars. Turton is here and also Wardell but I am told that he is to start today for the Wairarapa he appears to be an a-s. I am sure that he will make a mess of it, so will leave him to his own devices. I hope you will keep me informed of goings on in Auckland (officially I mean) for I am quite sure that both your time and energies must be fully occupied and required at present. Yours very truly, Will N. Searancke