I should have your views as soon as possible. From letters from Tokano I hear that Rewi had sent messengers there telling the people to withdraw from communication with us and naming Moerangi as a place we were not to pass to - I have written to Pourini (Hore Tauteka's man), Heu Heu, Marino and the others telling them Hare was on his way to join them and telling them to keep us informed of all they hear - this they have promised to do - There is a great deal of excitement at Taupo and they evidently believe fighting is to be. In case of your being forced to War the great thing is to have all ready to pour an overwhelming force on the enemy - I have no knowledge what strength you have available but fear not much you can rely on at Waikato - Take my advice on one point do not defend on a European force alone - we saw enough at Omaranui to warn us to the value of untrained and untried Europeans. But I suppose from the fewer Waikatos and the Raglan