New Plymouth Aug. 19, 1860. Sir, I exceedingly regret not being able to send you a word of good news. I consider our present condition to be truly humilitiating. The rebels are now moving about in open day, close to the Town, plundering everything they can find, and burning houses in every direction, whilst the forces remain within the lines of defence, although they exceed the rebels, in numbers. Our friendly Natives are beginning to enquire, what it is we really mean; whether it is our intention to abandon the place to the rebels. As Commodore Loring is proceeding to Auckland, and will give Your Excellency every information, I will not trouble you further at present. I have the honor to be Your Excellency's Most Obedient Humble Servant Robert Parris. Asst. Nat. Sec.