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English
Turanganui September 24th. 1865. D. McLean Esq., Dear Sir, I have received a message from the Pah that 100 Hau Haus left last night, on road to Tokomaru and Te Mawai. I believe Te Kena tried to keep it from our knowledge. He is acting a double part, and must be dealt with caution, if he is arms begging. But it would not be safe to allow him to distribute the rifles. They would soon be 20 miles away, and in case of a collision here we would have no arms to defend ourselves. The force under Mr. Wilson is very small, being located among natives who are not to be trusted. Paul and Friday are about the only ones we can depend on. I would wish for information about the Huts in the Redoubt, whether of wood or Rapo. Please give me notice in time whether I am to continue to supply the men at present here. A messenger is off to Te Mawi's, to apprise Henry Potia of the Hau Haus on the way to his place. Please accept two boxes of apples, the last of the season. Yours truly (Signed) G.E. Read.