unfortunate business will shortly assume an important character, a threat having been held out to shoot any native bold enough to offer land to Government. As might be expected Katatore views the recent proceedings with jealousy and fear. He has despatched a messenger to Ngatiruanui for assistance and the opinion amongst our natives is that the appeal will not be in vain. In the mean time whatever may happen the settlers must trust to the chapter of accidents for security ---Not a word has been heard here since His Excellency left for Auckland and I think he is right in keeping quiet until it is known whether we can or cannot have troops -