Otaraia, Wairarapa, 21st Oct., 1853. Dear Featherstone, You will be glad to hear that the purchases here are going on very satisfactorily. I returned yesterday from the head of the valley having purchased Collins place and a large tract of country besides extending towards Manawatu including the forty mile bush, and various other plains of fertile land which it was generally supposed the natives would never alienate. To secure these lands I have paid the natives £1000 the only sum at present at my disposal, the final arrangements and total price for the whole will be settled after my return from Hawkes Bay, in the meantime I have instructed Capt. Smith to explore these districts ascertain the extent probable value native reserves