True Copy. (Signed) Jno. Stevens. Tauranga 2nd. August 1870. Sir, I have the honour to inform you that I have received from Capt. Preece, a copy of a telegram from yourself to that Officer, stating that complaints have been made that Capt. Preece and I have advised the Urewera against surrendering at Wairoa, etc. I have only to give this report my most emphatic denial; and I dare any one to prove the truth of it. Neither Capt. Preece or myself have ever, by letter, or otherwise. done or said anything to the natives that would warrant such statements being circulated. If the Government consider that there is any foundation for such rumours, I would beg that a Court of Enquiry be appointed, and the matter sifted to the bottom. I have etc. (Signed) Gilbert Mair, Capt. Commanding Kaiteriria. To:- The Honble. The Defence Minister Wellington.