Hamilton, 31st Decr. 1870 My dear Sir, I have forwarded to you thro Dr. Pollen a letter addressed by Hone te One to Mr. Brabant, Clerk to the Bench at Raglan, I look upon Tawhiao's order to him as another effort to convert him I believe had it not been for Hone the Govt. would not have a single adherent in Aotea. Mr. Snackenburg has been again warned to clear out of the Aotea Mission Station and the friendlies there fully expect that Waata Tako will "muru" his property there, if allowed to do this they will as rumoured a short time ago visit the Ruapuke settlers. The Aotea friendlies complain that they have no instructions as to what they should do in the event of an "ope" of the Kingites coming over. I really think some precautionary measures should be taken as things do not look well. The Tainui had a runanga on the Coast and I am informed that they came to the conclusion to help the Govt. in the event of a Row. This day terminates my R. M. Ship of the Raglan District and I hope that you will use your influence in favor of Mr. Brabant the present clerk of the Court. He is a well educated a good native linguist, has considerable influence amongst the Europeans is clear headed and you would find him as R. M. there of very great assistance to you, or as Native Agent to communicate direct with you I think you would find of great advantage. I confess that my success at Raglan is in my opinion entirely attributable to his influence. You You will I trust pardon my mentioning Mr. Brabant's name but I should like to leave the District in better hands than those proposed. In haste my dear Sir, Yours very faithfully, William N. Searancke Donald McLean Esqre, WELLINGTON.