Taranaki New Plymouth. Sept. 13th. 1847. Sir, In reply to your letter of the 9th, inst., in reference to the selection and survey of land within the Block recently acquired from the natives under Governor Grey's instructions, between the Sugar Loaves and the Wai--wakaio river, I have the honor to inform you that the natives have not as yet signed a Deed for the same; nor have they accepted payment of the first instalment of the purchase money. Under these circumstances, any act on my part whereby the Government would be pledged to afford the settlers secure possession of the lands alluded to would be premature. At the same time, I do not apprehend that the natives will object to the location of settlers on such portions of the block as will not interfere with their Reserves and cultivations. The former will be distinctly shewn on a map with which you will shortly be furnished; and on which you will perceive that there are two sections chosen by absentees, intersecting the Waiwakaio Reserve (marked No. 3 on the plan); the selection of which I should wish you to postpone till I am instructed by His Excellency as to the disposal of them. As there are several native clearings and plantations interspersed throughout the Block,- it would be advisable that the persons selecting should understand that a term of one or two years, as the case may require, will be allowed to the natives for their final removal; by which they will have time to establish themselves on their permanent reserves. I believe I shall be acting in accordance with His Excellency's wishes by giving any assistance on the part of the Government, that will facilitate the occupation of land by the settlers; and shall consult with the Resident Magistrate about laying out more sections beyond the surveyed limits of the Company, within the present Block; when the same are required for the use and actual occupation of settlers. I am, etc. etc. etc. (Signed) Donald McLean. Inspector of Police. To:- F.D. Bell Esq.