Taranaki Dec. 16, 54 My dear Sir, I enclose the copy of a letter received yesterday from Mr.Thomas Skinner which well explain the state of things at the Mamaku. Although I was particular in asking several natives whether Ihaia actually fired the shot himself, it does not now appear clear that he did - Still I cannot without further information shovel the act upon Hori's shoulders - Hone Ropiha fears that W.King, Arapata and others opposed to the sale of land will join Ngatiruanui for