Auckland 6 December 1871 My dear McLean I was very glad to hear of Kereopa's capture and congratulate you on your success, I do not think that there was much sympathy for him amongst the Natives, for his crime was atrocious even in their eyes, but his trial and execution will I am convinced have a good effect, for it will show them that retribution for such atrocities is sure to follow sooner or later I hear that he is to be tried at Auckland and I think you are right in sending him up here, and in t reating him exactly as any European criminal would be dealt with - We have been forming a Rifle association up here to encourage generally rifle-shooting amongst the people, and a considerable sum of money will be raised -and I think we may reasonably ask for some assistance from the Government, more particularly as you have found it necessary to limit the number of Volunteers - Could you make us a grant of ammunition? say 20000 rounds. You have a good supply and would not miss that quantity which would be carefully expended under the Superintendence of the Association - If you could give me a favourable answer the committee would make an official application - I have been hoping that you would find something for me to do - I assure you I am in of employment and shall be much obliged if you can assist me. Yours very truly T. M. Haultain