Hamilton 14th. December 1869. My dear McLean, Wi Pukapuka has, this evening, arrived here on his way to the Native Land Court at Cambridge on the 16th. inst. His information confirms reports. Aporo, who was sent by Manga to try and induce Te Kooti to come to Te Kuiti, returned, having failed in his mission; and has again started for Te Kooti's camp. Kereopa, with a few followers, has joined him (Te Kooti); and again threats of his are being rumoured, not only against Tawhiao, but also against this district. I, for one, do not believe in them. Te Kooti, it appears, has still about 80 followers with him. We have had a great number of the King's followers lately down; some gum-digging near Ngaruawahia; others visiting their friends; and many come to settle down, if possible. I wish the Government would make some provision for these visitors, for they are an awful expense to me, and eat the unfortunate Kupapas out of house and home. This restoration of confidence may be a very good thing for the country, but it is actual ruin to me, and their friends living in the district. I hear Hellet has gone down the river to-day, on his way to Auckland. He will be able to give you all the latest reports. Rewi Manga has sent to me to oppose at Cambridge Land Court, some claims on lands at Mohoanui and Tokanui, which are to be tried there, and which lands he says belong to him and others, and not to the party claiming them. I shall do my best for him, but expect to be snubbed by Judge Rogan, who is to arrive here on Friday. Things are, on the whole, looking very quiet in the district. Your visit has given a general confidence, which did not exist formerly; and one result is that we have had more land-buyers, actual intending settlers, lately, than ever. Have you had time to think of my claim for forage? I never have less than two, and generally three horses to do my work, and an absent from home about 20 days in each month. Surely the Govt. might give me forage, who have so much to do, when they can afford to give it to my neighbour, who is not on horse-back four days in the month, and who has numberless orderlies to do his work for him. In haste, Yours very faithfully (Signed) William Searancke. To:- D. MeLean Esq. Auckland.