Napier April 7th, 1869 Dear Sir, There is a great deal going on here, and yet there is nothing -- Of course you know that Paora Kaiwhata and his people returned to Pawhakaairo -- refusing to proceed to Taupo for Tanner or any one of them after the way they (the Natives) had been treated. Colonel Lambert is now trying to get Paora and Manaena to raise a party of 150 men for service at Taupo. To proceed there with some 60 constabulary that are said to be on their way here for Taupo from Wanganui. Paora seems pretty willing to go -- But he cannot get a party -- Col. Lambert took Manaena into Swan's hotel yesterday (to the amusement of some people) and stood dinner, beer, etc. to Paora, but it did not succeed. I hear that Mr. Russell does not wish natives to go to Taupo -- Te that a blind? Fannin tells me he has sent you the letters from East Coast and Taupo, which contain the latest news. I believe a properly organized move on Taupo would be good. But such an one that will leave Hawkes Bay --Wairoa, Poverty Bay -- and all the East coast exposed -- In fact driving the enemy down on the coast and no one to meet them might coincide with the rest of the Govt.'s doings, but it would be suicidal in the extreme. The command of the natives gone inland at Wairoa has been given to Worgan in preference to Spiller or Eighton -- I dont think anything can be said now about employing Worgan -- The Times has given a one sided report of the meeting speeches etc. -- and the Herald has given no report at all -- Ferand tells me that he will write a letter about it. It is amusing to see the jealousy and suspicion that exists between the two acting parties for the government at Wellington, and your officers -- Hapuku was disappointed that he did not go with you -- I have commenced collecting information about flax-- I am still anxious for Karaitiana to come back so as to start the Manawatu purchase and survey -- There has been great work in getting persons to go to Taupo for information -- First as you know Grindell, then Hamlin -- T.Richardson, Davis and Carr were tryed but would not go, Now Hamilton -- partner of Wilkinson is up there -- Tanner was also sent to try and persuade Paora to return '' in last ''Hawkes Bay Herald''. I hope you and Mr.Rhodes will enjoy your visit, remember me to him. Tell him all are well at Clive and Napier. I remain, Yours truly, S. Locke