New Plymouth, 19 September 1859. My dear Sir, I write to tell you that I have accepted the office of Magistrate for the Waikato and adjacent Districts, and that I leave with my family for Auckland by the October teamer. Your recommendation must have been strong (rather too strong I fear) to cause His Excellency to repose so much confidence in me, and in returning you my sincere thanks for your continued consideration, you may rely upon my whole attention being directed to the duties of the office. All is quiet here, but I am not prepared to say how long it will last. Nikorima has been reinstated on his land, and Ihaia the same. The latter is in Hospital and with his brother Tiraurau, occasionally visits the Town. Teira's tikanga is the topic of the day. He continees firm, and W. Kingi coninues obstinate. What is to be done? From letters received by Teira from the Government, I do not see how you can recede, without seriously affecting the whole Province, as the natives regard the present question as the key to the session of land generally. Mr. W. Atkinson called on Saturday last, and told me he intended to apply to you for my appointment here. As I do not know the intention of the Govt., I merely stated that so soon as Mr. Parris commences to purchase land, I felt confident that it would not be in his power to perform the duties of both offices, especially that of Interpreting in the R.M.'s office, which I know he strongly objects to. Hoping you are well and that this note will find you at Wanganui. Believe me, My. dear Sir, Very faithfully yours, H. Halse. P.s. I am selling off bag and baggage. H.H.