Turanganui Poverty Bay November 19th. 1868. My Dear Sir, You must have been very glad to hear that poor Mrs. Wilson was alive. It was not till yesterday I thought it safe to spend the time required to bring the remains of the dead. It is a melancholy duty performed and I feel very much easier in spirit now it is done. If the bodies had not been so very much decomposed I would have ordered coffins and sent their remains to Napier, but I thought if all were carefully buried and the graves properly marked they might ultimately be removed without the many disagreeablee attending the duty just now. I have taken particular pains to mark the different Graves so that no mistake can occur. I have our scouts now out and if they come in before the Steamer starts I will send you the report. Mr. Clarke came in quite unsuspiciously to get his cattle for Turanga and was of course much shocked at the News. His vessel landed the 22 Constabulary, the sea being so high boats were unavailable. News just to hand confirms the report that poor old Paratene Pototi has been killed in Tamihana's pah together with six others. I can't imagine what actuated them to this deed. This perhaps will induce our friendlies to fight with more spirit. The force of Natives you have just sent me is large and I may have some difficulty in keeping them from attacking the enemy. If Ngatiporo come in any force I think we can make a successful expedition or as I am inclined to think more advisable reconnoitre in force that will compel the enemy to seek safety behind earthwork. A retreat on their part in face of a very large force will be turned into a rout and disorganization. I suppose the force at the Wairoa is not sufficiently strong to take them in Rear. One of my difficulties (but one to be surmounted) will be the provisioning a large force for any length of time in an advanced position. However what available transport the enemy has left, can be made use of. You may fully depend on my taking your advice with respect to the management of the Natives. Up to this time I have succeeded capitally. Every good European is a treasure in these times. Many thanks for the Cohorus. I enclose you the Doctors certificate as to Mrs. Wilsons case. If all heads of departments were as clear sighted and zealous in the cause as yourself our Native difficulties would be few. I sent scouts to get a load of Clarkes cattle last night from Wairaenga hika and this morning they returned with them. The Bishops house supposed to be standing. Too dark to see when they left. Believe me Yours very faithfully, Chas. Westrup.