Tauranga. January 27th. 1870. My dear Mr. McLean, Col. Fraser, with his men, left Maketu this morning, for Rotorua, with Mr. Clarke. The letters received from you this morning were sent after them at once. Rawiri, of Whakamarama, sent in a messenger this morning. He reports that fighting commenced at Tapupa on the 24th., and was continued on the 25th. and 26th., and that Hakaraia's people, Tapuika, has been nearly all killed, or captured; but as far as they (the Piriakau) knew, that Te Kooti's own people had not suffered. The messenger says that Te Kooti's force is 600 strong; and the enemy estimate McDonnell's force at 1,000. They were aware of the approach of the Waikato column. I have it Mr. Clarke's sergeant warned the natives at Wahakatori, and on as far as Te Kaha, to hold themselves in readiness, in the event of their being required there. I am Yours very truly (Signed) W.G. Mair.