. December 7th. 1868 My dear Mr. McLean, I venture to put a few lines on paper, just as they occur to me. It appears from the information received, that the total loss inflicted on the Hauhaus is not more than 70. That the main body of Kooti's men have made good their retreat in the direction of Puketapu, or Maunga-powhata. There is also a vague rumour that Whitmore is likely to remove the whole of the force he can get, to the West Coast, before long. The present state of Te Kooti's party, therefore, is most unsatisfactory, for though he has sustained an important reverse, he is still in strength, and may be able to excite others to join with him; and he will be anxious, as a desperate outlaw, to inflict the greatest amount of injury he can. With respect to Whitmore, I am of opinion that it will be decidedly for the advantage of our cause, if he does withdraw, and that quickly. It may be presumed that their campaign is virtually at an end, because there is not a sufficient force now in the field, to carry on active operations, and to keep a communication with the base of operations. Feeling, however, that it is of vital consequence that Kooti should be followed up with the least possible delay, I suggest that you should obtain the sanction of the Government. First, that Frazer and his men should remain on this coast, with as many more of the English force as can be mustered, independently of Whitmore's men from Whangnvi. By this step there will be a probability of the Friendly natives co-operating heartily. which otherwise they will not do. Secondly, that immediate communication should be held with Col. Harrington, requesting him to organise a force at once, (Waikato Militia, or diggers) and then that a movement be made with all speed, in conjunction with the Arawa. N.B. This letter, in the handwriting of W.L. Williams, is unfinished, and unsigned.)