2 or 3 influential Settlers to suggest the scheme which is now being carried into effect; if the original plan is adhered to, that of only charging the lowest possible price for grinding, every Settler in New Plymouth will have reason to bless the day the Union Mill was put up - Very few of the Settlers are provided with Fire arms, or indeed weapons of any description. I do not believe that amongst them all they could muster 25 firelocks fit for use; so that in the event of occasion requiring it, they would be in a very defenceless state. The Natives are now in possession of all the guns originally belonging to the white people, which they have obtained from time to time in exchange for Pigs and other commodities. Of Maories employed by Europeans I only know of 3 or 4. These are always to be met with at the Stores of Messieurs R. Brown and Dorset, who reward their services by occasional presents of articles of clothing. The Collector of Customs also keeps a native Servant, who is I believe paid in a similar manner - The Settlers continue on friendly terms with the Natives - both are anxiously awaiting the arrival of Governor Grey, the whites to be put in poosession of their land, and the Maories to know what utu they are to get for it; some of the aborigines however refuse altogether to part with certain portions to which they lay claim, and I fear that compulsion will be necessary to induce them to do so; of these, are the Hua and Waitara Natives, who in concert with the Pukitappu tribe have always been the most troublesome to Europeans, and would be the first to take advantage of their defenceless state, if they thought they could do so with impunity - I have the honour to remain, Sir, Your most obt. Servt., H. Aubrey. Donald McLean, Esqre., Inspector of Police.