Clyde December 2nd. 1868. Sir, I have the honor to report that the ''Ahuriri'' (supposed to be) appeared off the mouth of the river at half past four this morning. I procured a boat's crew and endeavoured to board her, but unsuccessfully; partly to the bad service of the boat, and partly owing to the heavy sea running. She must have had news for this place, as our first messenger, Rewi, returned about 2 p.m. via the Coast, bringing pencil notes from Mr. Burton, and from Mr. Preece; also the enclosed from Mr. Hamlin, and several notes for natives here. The purport of them all is to the same effect, advising us of the hitherto unsuccessful nature of the operations against the enemy; the loss, by us, of a valuable supply of ammunition; and the failure of our Wairoa Contingent to get in rear of the enemy's position. Mr. Preece reports also that Pera Tipoki, son of Tuatini, lurks in our neighbourhood. This corresponds with the reports of my scouts (natives). The Mohaka natives, in number 62 men and ten women, are in receipt of pay from Nov. 4th,. the ten women drawing full rations with the men. The Nuhaka people applied for assistance, in food, to-day, as per letter this day received. Major Lambert directed me to serve them with 500 lbs. of flour, and 2 bags of sugar. The number of Mohaka people brought here, exceeds my wish by one half; and moreover, weakens Mohaka itself far more than