Taranaki. 13th. April 1847. Sir, I do myself the honor to acquaint you, for the information of His Excellency, the Lt. Governor, that the survey of the Block of land to the South of the Sugar Loaves, is nearly completed; and with the exception of a small patch on the Northern boundary, shown on a sketch from recollection, which I herewith enclose, the natives clearly understand that they have fully conceded their right, and granted possession of the surveyed land, in accordance with His Excellency's terms; and that they are to receive payment for the same in installments, as instructed by him; including the reserved patch in the purchase, before the last amount is handed over to them. Mr. Ligar, the Surveyor-General, who arrived here on the 9th. inst by the Brig, having seen the plans and instructions to the surveyors, visited the Station with me; and afforded every assistance and information as to the conduct of the survey, both there and at the settlement. The Native Reserves at Moturoa are surveyed; and I have been obliged to include two sections chosen by Europeans; and I expect the same will have to be done for the natives, in order to give them contiguous Blocks. A surveyor and party is at present cutting the lines of the Reserve for the natives living in town; and after that is finished he is to commence the external boundary to the North of the Waiwakaio river; which the Puketapu tribe seem determined to oppose. I went with Mr. Ligar yesterday evening to tell them that we intended commencing on that line, and should wish them to be all present some day this week, to see how far their right extended, and determine the boundary between them and the Ngamotu tribe, most of whom have agreed to the Governor's proposals. I have received an advance of £20 from Capt. King, for the labourers employed on the survey; who are all paid up to the 31st ult.; and I shall soon have to apply to him for the first payment to the natives, from whom land purchases are made. I have, etc. (signed)Don. McLean