Gisborne 24th. Feby. 1872. Dear Sir, The Napier is leaving and I am enabled to write this short note to you. Ropata will be in here today and intends going on to Napier next steamer but I question if he will be satisfied to transact all his business with Mr. Ormond as I know he wants particularly to see you an several matters. I have several letters from the coast some disputes continue about lands. At Tologo a fresh affair is likely to occur owing to the negotiation for sale of a run rented by Messrs. Rhodes and Locke some of the spendthrift owners are inclined to sell which is running counter to a tribal resolution not to sell or pass land through the courts I do not know what will be the issue of this until I see Ropata. Ngatiporou are not to be blamed reserving their lands although Hauhau proclivities may be attributed to them in consequence as really the amount of jobbing and swindling in this district is beyond conception. I often am inclined to write more clearly to you on these subjects but do not know whether you might not attribute undue interference on my part. However I shall always consider it my duty to prevent troubles arising between us and Ngatiporou no matter who may be compromised My native work is becoming rather heavy so many things are referred to me, and letters from all parts received. I have had many letters from the Urewera. They complain of two or three things of which I inform Mr. Ormond. I have been very busy with Col. Harrington and Col. Gorton is now here. I have the honor to be Sir, Yours faithfully, T.W. Porter. Capt./Adjt.