To:- D. McLean Esq. 1869 (draft) The present state of the East Coast from Opotiki to Hawke's Bay is so very unsatisfactory that I venture to suggest to the Government that steps should be taken to attack Te Kooti before he gains further accessaries of strength, and I believe this can still be done with the aid of native allies, if the Government will authorise my taking independent action in the matter before Kooti gains any decisive victory, and before the Friendly natives - many of whom are becoming discontented - may decline to co-operate as they have hitherto done. The general threatening aspect of the Island has led me to discharge what I conceive my duty to the Colony as Minister. I therefore represent to Ministers what in my opinion is the position of the East Coast, the part of the country I am most connected with, and state what action I consider should be taken in reference to it:- 1. Condition of Wairoa, Te Waru, etc. Insecurity of life. 2. Condition of Poverty Bay. Return of men of Te Kooti, who settle among resident natives. 3. Opotiki - its great front. 4. Te Kooti, his late point, how now re-inforced, has grown for mischief: consequences of succcess on his part; still further bring his supporters; Waikato support effect of, if allowed to culminate; a great difficulty will have grown up, and how can it be met? By advice is:- to act at once there: the East Coast tribes against Te Kooti and Te Waru: to check their further accessions of force by meeting them at once, especially to do this before Waikato can throw its aid in. If effectually done this would free the Government this side of Island. If allowed to culminate, a great force will be required eventually to meet difficulties, and disasters must come before it can be met. Ropata now here: would, at my instance, take Ngatiporou into the field: a small European force to aid; connect with the natives would be advisable; if not to be had, the natives can be obtained to effect service. State our willingness to work this out, but require conduct of affairs, when line of action confirmed by Ministers.