Defensive preparations are being carried on with great activity indicating some approaching event better known to the natives than to ourselves. The Raeiomiti is being fortified and when finished will present a formidable appearance --- The Kawau is the next to be fortified so farewell for the present to the contemplated roads --- Ihaia is putting up another pa at the Mamaku on the inland side of his house --- the first pa having been abandoned. A large pa has been erected at Huirangi capable of containing several hundred men --- The Werohia and the Kuhikuhi I should imagine must be now completed --- then again Upakotanaki has been fortified with unusual care, and lastly Moturoa under the direction of Poharama, which will be as strong as any in the District as against natives. Faithfully yours, H. Halse