they could not attend ot it. Enclosed extract from the Hawkes Bay Times of this evening will give you some idea of what is said by the opposition as to Mackay's visit to Tawhiao. The night is very hot rain wd. be a great relief. Yours always J.D. Ormond Clipping enclosed: From The Thames Advertiser, Nov. 5, we clip the following piece of intelligence, which, in a very brief form has already been reported by telegraph:- It would appear that Mr.Mackay has really gone on a visit to the Maori King, and that he has not abandoned that project, as was reported by that remarkably accurate authority - the Press Association, Tawhiao, we believe sent a formal and ceremonious invitation to Mr.Mackay, to meet him at Rekanui, and expressed a desire too "talk" with that gentleman. Why the King should take this opportunity of snubbing Mr.McLean and the Government, by selecting a gentleman who holds no official position, through whom to make his desires and wishes known, is not apparent. One fact is, however, very clear, namely, that Mr.Mackay has accomplished, without presents of flour and sugar, or "seed potatoes", that which Mr.McLean vainly tried to do a few months back - he has gone on a friendly visit to the King party.