Auckland. 26th. January 1861. My dear Commodore, I believe it is against your rule to permit ladies to go in your ships. If an exception could be made in favour of Mrs. Gore-Browne, who wishes to accompany the Governor to the Bay of Islands, I know, from a conversation I have just had with her, she would be gratified; and have therefore taken upon myself to ask if you will kindly intimate your wishes in the matter, to Captain Vernon. I am yours very truly, (Signed) Donald McLean. To:- Com. Loring. Auckland. 22nd. February 1861. My dear Sir, I am exceedingly obliged for your letter of the 6th. instant., which I received after returning from the Bay of Islands. Will you tell Hikaka that the Governor much approves of his conduct, and strict adherence to the promise he made to me, that he would not interfere in the Taranaki war, If you deem it prudent to do so. I do trust that the Waikatos will begin to see the folly of persisting against the troops. The Government has no revengeful feeling in the matter; which they must see, by the treatment of the prisoners and wounded; and it is to be hoped that the various tribes