One hundred Natives of this neighbourhood joined the Waikato's and went down to Taranaki to try and get the women back but as the Natives from here were influenced not a much to assist the Waikato's as to avenge an old grievance of their own I prevented them from going all the way in case of a collision only taking a few unarmed ones with me to the place where we found on your arrival that the women had been concealed. We have used every endeavour to preserve peace I would very much dread the revival of any old feudish feelings with the Waikato's it not only endangers the lives of Natives but would probably subject a whole settlement to considerable loss and annoyance we had an instance of that at Wanganui. The Waikato's talk of land as payment this I have disencouraged and refer them solely to yourself for advice as they are so near Auckland. We have one or two rather troublesome matters on hand at present Natives laying claim to parts of European Sections - I am in hopes that they may be settled you will be glad to hear that Munu's case was amicably so and various others have been adjusted since - I will write you full particulars of my trip round the District - Two murders have been committed along the West Coast occasioned by some dispute about pigs. I cannot advert in detail to various matters at present but as a messenger soon leaves here you will hear every particular by him and as this goes by a chance hand you will excuse abruptness and believe me in haste to remain My Dear Sir, Yours very truly, (Signed) Dond. McLean.