fully acquiesed, and render us very cautious how we again receive promises from parties who did not intend to fulfil them. From your knowledge of the natives in that neighbourhood, it may be necessary for me to give you further caution as to your proceeding with them; and have only to request you will explain to them how utterly valueless the land we require of them is in its present wild state; and that the advantages (independant of the remuneration they are to receive) of having Europeans settled near them, will soon be found a more real benefit than the empty title of being owners of a waste country; which, if disposed of, will so much enhance the value of what is reserved for themselves. I remain Sir, Your obedient servant, (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- W. Carrington Esq. Taranaki. New Plymouth. 12th. April 1847. Sir, I have the honour to hand you the enclosed vouchers and acquittances, No. 1 to 7 for labourers' wages and general expenses of land surveying at this settlement up to the 31st. of March, which you will perhaps have the kindness to forward to Auckland for the approval of His Excellency, the Lieut. Governor. I have the honour to remain Sir, etc., etc., etc., (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- Capt. H. King R.N. etc., etc., etc., Police Office.