Wanganui Apr. 26, 1860 My Dear Mr. Maclean I attended a very large meeting at Rangitikei on the 23rd Taratoa and many of the Otaki and Manawatu natives were there they all expressed themselves to be peaceable provided the Militia were not called out or stockades made. I could see plainly however that were our arms at Taranaki unsuccessful the state here would be highly critical. There are Waikato spies now in this part one is at Poratawhao he has a kings flag, and also a large pipe which is only produced when there is a very numerous assembly it is described as holding several figs of tobacco at once this when lighted is passed from mouth to mouth each person who takes a smoke of it takes off his cap and salutes Wiremu Kingi, and I believe that many have done this as a token of allegiance Hoani Wiremu obtained this information, if I were to give any advice I would recommend the Govr. appointing him as a native agent and furnishing him means to go about this is his wish and he is admirably adapted by his general information to do much good for the preserving peace in this part. He has done much to bring Mohi back and Kawana hunia also. I should likewise recommend a present to be made Mohi to purchase another horse. I think he has been most unjustly treated and his tribe feels it, there is no doubt the horse was his in haste Yrs. most truly R. Taylor Donald Maclean Esqr.