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English
Tauranga 2nd November 1870 My dear Sir, The Native Contingents have returned from Fort Galatea to Te Teko and Kaitereria. I have not yet received Capt. Preece's official report but enclose for your information a private letter from Sub Inspector Gascoigne, who is in temporary charge of Capt. Mair's men. As Mr. Gascoigne suggests I think it would be advisable to have a small force of Mounted natives to patrol the open plains between the Uriwera country and Waikato river, whenever a force moves against Te Kooti. I can recommend Mr. Gascoigne as a suitable Officer to take command of such a party. All natives, including the Arawas, are planting largely this year. The Arawas neglecting to plant last year suffered considerably in consequence. They now lay out their money in purchasing provision and clothing, instead of getting rid of it as fast as possible on liquor, which was the case last year. The chief Enoka of Tauranga is suffering considerably with a very bad foot, caused by the bite of a fish - I will place him under Dr. Armitages care on his return from Ruatahuna. I have written to you officially through Mr. Branigan about the non receipt of pay for Sept. and Oct. for all the Forces in this and Opotiki Districts. Since my arrival in this district, the pay has been forwarded very iregularly, although my Estimates were duly forwarded on 1st of each month and balances paid quarterly to Public Account. I dont know where the delay occurs, but a word from you would probably cause the money to be remitted monthly in future. Everything works smoothly and quietly in the District. I remain my dear Sir, Yours very truly, W. Moule. The Honorable D. McLean, Native & Defence Minister, WELLINGTON.