BELL BLOCK. [FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.]

Taranaki Herald, Volume IX, Issue 422, 1 September 1860, Page 3

BELL BLOCK. [FROM OUR OWN CORRESPONDENT.]

August 30, 1860,

The past week has been one of unusual quiet. The enemy have not shown themselves on or near the block, but the smoke of their camp fires have been observed rising out of the bush adjoining the Tima pa several mornings since the destruction of their wheat stacks, and it is thought that apprehending a similar attempt being made on their pa, arc lying in wait close at hand to offer a little obstruction if tho force would not be thought too largo. Yesterday, six mounted settlers rode up to the Ninia pa and drove in a herd of GO cattle, comprising bullocks which had been driven fiom the Town districts, cattle belonging to the enemy, and others belonging to settleis in this district. We were surprised yesterday evening by observing large quantities of smoke rising from the Puketakauere pa. On examining it with glasses, the gicater part of the palisading appeared to be down, and burning in heaps, and what appeared to be the troops busily employed destroying the remainder. Not having heard any firing, it is supposed to have been deserted by the enemy, and the troops finding such to be the case, took the opportunity to destroy it. The planting season for potatoes having arrived, and the enemy being for the time almost glutted with plunder, our indefatigable foe have, it seems to me, retired, or are about retiring for the present to plant their crops, secure their plunder, rest awhile and reciuit their forces, and then pay us another visit when it suits their purpose. This morning the Puketakauere pa is totally destroyed.