Natives you could get a fair force together. From the Taupo side 500 men could be got together at short notice to move on Waikato from this side I should make that force up as follows - Constabulary about 100 - leaving near the same number to hold Taupo - Taupo Natives about 150 and the other 250 Arawa and Urewera - this would leave plenty of Taupo Natives and plenty of Arawa to hold their own country - In case you require such a force I would guarrantee to start it in a week and would go up to Taupo for the purpose - It is just as well to discuss these matters beforehand and I should expect you to depend upon me for collecting the force and directing from this side in case the necessity arises - Whenuanui and Paerau beg to be allowed to shew their sincerity by going up Waikato if there is war leaving their women and children here as evidence of their loyalty. They might be of use to lead the main portion of the Tribe now in the Bay of Plenty. I am sending you Ropata's official which tells