Opotiki. July 29th. (no date). My dear Mr. McLean, Ropata has just asked me to make use of some of Hira Te Popo's men, in searching for Nepia Tokitahi. Hira thinks that they could find him. I should like to be informed what assurance I may make to Nepia, to induce him to come in. The natives generally look upon him as not being implicated in any murders, - in fact he is looked upon and called ''Te Kai whakaora tangata''. The people of Whakatane may certainly think him, in a great measure responsible for their escape from this pa in March last year. Ropata has just had a long talk with Raku Raku (who came here with Wipihu to see him). Allowing for a little pardonable self-importance, I like the way he has talked here; and I am convinced that his visit will do good. Please let me know about Nepia; and also about Te Waru. Yours very truly, (Signed) W. Mair.