FURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO THE NATIVE INSURRECTION. CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN THE GOVERNOR AND GENERALS GOLD AND PRATT. (IN CONTINUATION OF PAPERS PRESENTED ON THE 4TH SEPTEMBER 1860.)

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1860 Session I, E-03c

E—No. 3c

FURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO THE NATIVE INSURRECTION. CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN THE GOVERNOR AND GENERALS GOLD AND PRATT. (IN CONTINUATION OF PAPERS PRESENTED ON THE 4TH SEPTEMBER 1860.)

Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly by command of His Excellency.

E—No. 3c

FURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO THE NATIVE INSURRECTION.

No. 1. THE GOVERNOR TO COLONEL QOLD. Government House, Auckland, 4th April, 1860. Sir,— In the event of W. King's making no new movement of a hostile nature, I venture to suggest that you should make none until the arrival of the reinforcement expected from Australia. It would then be advisable that Mr. McLean should again communicate with W. King to give him another opportunity to make peace on definite terms. Should this fail, it will be for you to deal with him as you think proper. I send you a Memorandum signed by the Attorney-General on the course it would be desirable to pursue with the murderers of our unfortunate settlers, should they be captured or surrendered. As it is probable you will have a reinforcement sufficient to enable you to act in any way you think proper, even without Naval assistance, I have to request you will move the Captain of one of the expected Steamers to come into the Manukau for the purpose of communicating with me at his earliest convenience. I have, &c, T. Gokb Browne. P.S.—You will of course insist on the surrender of the men who murdered the settlers on the 27th March, whenever an opportunity offers. T. G. B. The Honourable Colonel Gold, Commanding H.M. Forces, Taranaki. No. 2. EXTRACT OP LETTER FROM THE GOVERNOR TO COLONBi GOLD, DATED 14TH APRIL, 1860. (The first portion of this Letter proposes a plan of operation which it would not be advisable to make public.) * » * "I Jo not in any way seek to fetter your judgment in Military matters. It is for you to determine in what manner these views can be best carried into effect, or whether they can be carried into effect at all. The Mails and Steamers and the disposal of the force at Wanganui are placed absolutely at your disposal should you require their service. Finally, I would suggest that secrecy, celerity, and severe chastisement are the means and object to be ustd and attained." I have, Sfc. T. Gore Browne. No. 3 THE GOVERNOR TO COLONEL GOLD. Government House, Auckland, 20th April, IBCO. Sir,— I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your Letter, dated Tataraimaka,—April 1860. 1 shall be much obliged for all the information you can give me as to the course likely to be adopted by the rebels ;—where their fortified pahs aje, and whether you think them likely to await your approach. I should be glad also to know your own views and intentions as to the future. I have had an interview with some influential Chiefs from the Waikato, who appear very desirous that the war should not be extended to the north of the Waitara river. I replied that we certainly should not advance beyond the Wailara unless the tribes on the north of that river acted in a manner which obliged us to do so. I beg therefore to request that you will not cross the Waitara unless some unforeseen event should render it absolutely necessary. Should King make overtures of peace to you, he may be referred to me. I should wish to know what has been done in reference to the Blockhouses at the Waitara and at Fort Niger, and how the town of New Plymouth is protected. I should be obliged if your Brigade-M.ijor would furnish me with the means of making the necessary returns of Troops in New Zealand to the Secretary of State, at his early convenience.

No. 2. EXTRACT OP LETTER FROM THE GOVERNOR TO COLONBi GOLD, DATED 14TH APRIL, 1860. (The first portion of this Letter proposes a plan of operation which it would not be adrisable to make public.) * » * "I Jo not in any way seek to fetter your judgment in Military matters. It is for you to determine in what manner these views can be best carried into effect, or whether they can be carried into effect at all. The Mails and Steamers and the disposal of the force at Wanganui are placed absolutely at your disposal should you require their service. Finally, I would suggest that secrecy, celerity, and severe chastisement are the means and object to be ustd and attained." I have, Sfc. T. Gore Browne.

No. 3 THE GOVERNOR TO COLONEL GOLD. Government House, Auckland, 20th April, IBGO. Sir,— I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your Letter, dated Tataraimaka, —April 1860. I shall be much obliged for all the information you can give me as to the course likely to be adopted by the rebels ; —where their fortified pahs ajre, and whether you think them likely to await your approach. I should be glad also to know your own views and intentions as to the future. I have had an interview with some influential Chiefs from the Waikato, who appear very desirous that the war should not be extended to the north of the Waitara river. I replied that we certainly should not advance beyond the Wailara unless the tribes on the north of that river acted in a manner which obliged us to do so. I beg therefore to request that you will not cross the Waitara unless some unforeseen event should render it absolutely necessary. Should King make overtures of peace to you, he may be referred to me. I should wish to know what has been done in reference to the Blockhouses at the Waitara and at Fort Niger, and how the town of New Plymouth is protected. I should be obliged if your Brigade-M.ijor would furnish me with the means of making the necessary returns of Troops in New Zealand to the Secretary of State, at his early convenience.

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E—No. 3c

FURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO

A letter from Mr. Morgan, which 1 enclose, will shew you that some of the Waikato people are likely to join W. King in opposition to the wishes of the Chiefs of their tribes. I have, &c, T. Gore Brownb. The Honourable Colonel Gold, Commanding H,M. Foices, Taranaki.

No. 4 THE GOVERNOR TO COLONEL GOLD. Government House, Auckland, 17th May, 1860. Sir,— I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your Despatch, dated 14th May. I have to inform you that H.M.S.S. " Cordelia" will proceed at once to Taranaki, and from thence to Weiliug-ton for the purpose of bringing up the Officers and Seamen of H.M.S.S. " Pelorus" to Taranaki with as little delay as possible. In reply to your desire for instructions relative to \V. King, I have to observe that the operations at Taranaki are of minor importance to those which must ensue if the Waikato tribes take part in the war. I have therefore to request that you will abstain (until you hear from me again) from all interference with W. King unless he should himself commence hostilities—should he do so, I recommend your offering a free passage to any of the Waikato tribes who, being will) him, may be willing to leave his Pah. I need scarcely observe that it would not be proper to try any prisoners you may take, by Court Martial, unless you are fortunate enough to get possession of those who have committed or who may commit murder in cold blood. In a few days I shall be able to send you by the "Victoria" distinct instructions as to operations against W. King. • ••••••• I have, &c. T. Gohe Browne. The Honourable Colonel Gold, Commanding H.M. Forces, Taranaki.

No. 5. THE GOVERNOR TO COLONEL GOLD. Government House, Auckland, 28th May, 1860. Sir,— The result of the meeting at Ngaruawahia is not yet known—the speeches on the first day were very warlike, but the Chiefs from the South who are known to be inclined to peace had not yet arrived. I have still to request you to refrain from attacking W. King unless he commences hostilities against you—should he do so, however, you would of course inflict as severe a chastisement as possible without hesitation or delay. If you can devise any means by which you can effectually punish the Taranaki and Ngatiruanui tribes, such an example would have an excellent effect. I need not remind you of the importance of carrying into complete effect any operations you may undertake, as the Maories invariably construe escape into victory. Mr. Parris speaks of some potatoes which it would be desirable to value and consume leaving the payment for future settlement; perhaps you will be good enough to give such orders as you think proper on the subject. I have, &c, T. Gore Browne. The Honourable Colonel Gold, Commanding H.M. Forces in New Zealand.

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E—No. .c

THE NATIVE INSURRECTION.

No. 6. THE GOVERNOR TO COLONEL GOLD. Government House, Auckland, 6th June, 1860. Sir, — I regret that it is still my duty to request you to refrain from attacking VV. King unless he commences hostilities against you. I have consulted with Mr. McLean (who has returned from the Waikato) and my Executive Council, and although all see the inconvenience attending the present state of inaction, we are unanimously of opinion that any movement against W. King at the present moment, without further aggression ou his p rt, would probably involve war with nearly the whole of the tribes on the South of Auckland. * * * I beg however to repeat that if the Chief, W. King, renews his attacks upon you or the settlers you are nlieved from all restraints on my part, and will I trust deal with him vigorously and without delay. There is no political reason which can induce me to enjoin forbearance towards the Ngataruanui and Taranaki tribes —on the contrary, it is necessary for our own credit that they should be severely punished in order that other tribes may learn that they cannot murder our unarmed settlers with impunity. At this distance I do not desire to indicate any particular plan of operation against them, but it is essential that, sooner or later, they be made to feel our power both to protect and to avenge. I trust therefore you will soon be able to find some means of striking an effective blow against them. Commander Norman of H..VI C.S. "Victoria" has been directed to place himself in communication with you ; when you can dispense with his services I beg you to request him to return to Manukau. I have, &c, T. Gore Browne. The Honourable Colonel Gold, Commanding H.VI. Forces in New Zealand, Taranaki.

No. 7. MAJOR NELSON TO MAJOR OP BRIGADE. Camp, Waitara, 7th June, 1860. Sir,I have the honor to acquaint you, for the information of the Colonel Commanding the Forces that, about 10 minutes past 11 o'clock this morning, shots were fired from the Pah, distant about 1800 yards S.E. of this Camp, —then apparently a volley, —then a few like file-firing,—then single, continuing; at intervals about Jof an hour—in all say 250 shots. Several (I cannot give about) Natives were seen in and around the Pah with the naked eye. About \to 12, they (about 50) were observed moving outside in the direction of the Waiongana River. I have, &c, Thomas Nelson, Major, 40th Regiment, To the Major of Brigade, Commanding Camp, Waitara. &c, &c., &c, Tarauaki.

No. 8. MAJOR NELSON TO MAJOR OF BRIGADE. Camp, Waitara, Bth June, 1860. Sir,— With reference to my Report respecting the assemblage of Natives at the Pah yesterday, I have the honor further to state for the information of the Colonel Commanding that they assembled again this morning about 11 a.m. The Pah is one of the old fern ones, bearing S.S.E. from the Camp, and called, I am informed, the " Saddle-back." I sent the Pilot to the Flagstafif cross-trees. He reports, " They appear to be fortifying it, digging a trench through the centre of the Pah from North to South." It is difficult to say the number, but at least 40 or 50 were at times seen standing up. At 4 o clock they appeared to leave. I have, &c, Thomas Nelson, To the Major of Brigade, Major, 40th Regiment, &c, &c, &c, Commanding Camp, Waitara. Taranaki.

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E—No. 3c

FURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO

No. 9. MAJOR NELSON TO MAJOR OP BRIGADE. Camp, Waitara, 9th June, 1860. Snt,— Lieut. Brooke, 40th Regiment, having applied for permission to proceed in the Steamer to Taranaki, I have granted the same. This Officer will be able to afford any further information that may be deemed necessary as regards my Reports appertaining to the assembly, &c, of the Natives Jit the " Saddle-back" Pah. I have, &c, Thomas Nelson Major, 40th Regiment, Commanding Camp, Waitara, To the Major of Brigade, &c, &c, &c, Taranaki. _______^_^________

No. 10. MAJOR NELSON TO MAJOR OF BRIGADE. Camp, Waitara, 19th June, 1860. Sir, — I have the honor to forward the annexed copy of a Report which I have received from Assistant-Surgeon Stiles, 40th Regiment, regarding the state of health of Captain Brown. Referring to my former Letters, noted in the margin, I would beg to mention that there ig now palisading round the sides of the Pah visible from the Camp,—that " Whares" have been built inside, and, no doubt, the usual means of defence constructed. I would say from observation, as far as can be judged at the distance, there are 200 Natives in the Pah. I have, &c, Thomas Nelson, Major 40th Regiment, To the Major of Brigade, Commanding Camp, Waitara. &c, &c, &c, Taranaki. No. 11. MAJOR NELSON TO MAJOR OP BRIGADE. Camp, Waitara, 23rd June, 1860. Sir,— I have the honor to report for the information of the Colonel Commanding the Forces, that, observing this morning a fire burning in rear of a belt of trees S.E. of the Camp, and Natives apparently employed in cutting wood, and conveying it to the " Puketakauere" Pah ; and having reason to believe that they were aggressing upon Her Majesty's Land, I directed Lieut. Mould, R.E., to proceed and reconnoitre the ground. This Officer accordingly left the Camp, supported by an Escort. He found it to be a Raupo swamp (not a deep one) from which the hostile Natives seemingly obtain all the materials for the Whares in their new Pah. The spot is on a portion of Her Majesty's land. Having performed the duty, they were on their return to Camp, when they were fired upon by the Natives from the old Pah at the extremity of the ridge to the S.E. of the Camp, and about half a mile from it, (this I believe is also on Her Majesty's land); as well as along the top of the ridge in the direction of the Pah from which Natives were seen to come out to the number of about 150, extending as they descended. Three shots were fired by the hostile Natives, before the escort returned the fire. This it did not until nearly reaching the Camp. To cover the escort, I directed the Artillery to open a fire. From what was observed there were some casualties among the rebels, but the exact number I cannot say. The Officers and Men behaved with great steadiness. I enclose a return of Ordnance Ammunition expended. I have, &c, Thomas Nelson, Major, 40th Regiment, Commanding Camp, Waitara. The Major of Brigade, &c, &c, &c, Taranaki.

No. 11. MAJOR NELSON TO MAJOR OP BRIGADE. Camp, Waitara, 23rd June, 1860. Sir,— I have the honor to report for the information of the Colonel Commanding the Forces, that, observing this morning a fire burning in rear of a belt of trees S.E. of the Camp, and Natives apparently employed in cutting wood, and conveying it to the " Puketakauere" Pah ; and having reason to believe that they were aggressing upon Her Majesty's Land, I directed Lieut. Mould, R.E., to proceed and reconnoitre the ground. This Officer accordingly left the Camp, supported by an Escort. He found it to be a Eaupo swamp (not a deep one) from which the hostile Natives seemingly obtain all the materials for the Whares in their new Pah. The spot is on a portion of Her Majesty's land. Having performed the duty, they were on their return to Camp, when they were fired upon by the Natives from the old Pah at the extremity of the ridge to the S.E. of the Camp, and about half a mile from it, (this I believe is also on Her Majesty's land) ; as well as along the top of the ridge in the direction of the Pah from which Natives were seen to come out to the number of about 150, extending as they descended. Three shots were fired by the hostile Natives, before the escort returned the fire. This it did not until nearly reaching the Camp. To cover the escort, I directed the Artillery to open a fire. From what was observed there were some casualties among the rebels, but the exact number I cannot say. The Officers and Men behaved with great steadiness. I enclose a return of Ordnance Ammunition expended. I have, &c, Thomas Nelson, Major, 40th Regiment, Commanding Camp, Waitara, The Major of Brigade, &c, &c, &c, Tarauaki.

7tb, Bth, & 9th June.

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E—No. 3c

THE NATIVE INSURRECTION.

No. 12. MAJOR NELSON TO MAJOR OF BRIGADE. Camp, Waitara, Sir,— 24th June, 1860. I have the honor to report for the information of the Colonel Commanding the Forces, that the eteamer " Tasmanian Maid," is detained in consequence of the state of the weather. I avail myself of the return to Taranaki of the Venerable the Archdeacon (Rev. Mr. Govett), to forward copy of a Report, now on board the steamer, relating to the rebels firing on a reconnoitring party from the Camp yesterday. This morning for the first time a flag white with black cross, was hoisted. In about an hour and a half after, it was lowered to half-mast high, and at this hour 12 o'clock, io continues. I have just seen Mr. White, whose impression is, that if one was killed, or even wounded yesterday, they would endeavour to excite the feelings of the half-hearted amongst themselves, with the view to all joining, and concentrating their Force at the " Puketakauere" Pah. I have, &c, Thomas Nelson, Major, 40th Regiment, To the Major of Brigade, Commanding' Camp, Waitara. &c, &c, &c., Taranaki.

Ho. 13. MAJOR NELSON TO MAJOR OP BRIGADE. Camp, Waitara, 24th June, 1860. Sir,I have the honor to acquaint you for the information of the Colonel Commanding the Forces, that Sergeant Marjouram, R.A., came to me with a verbal message, (saying he had been asked by the Rev. Mr. Whiteley, who had not time, and who had just left the Waikato Pah), to the effect, that he, Mr. Whiteley had been requested by the Chief Hapurona, to deliver a Message to the Officer Commanding the Forces at the Waitara. I desired Sergeant Marjouram to make a written report of the same, and I herewith enclose a copy •f his statement. I have, &c, Thomas Nelson, Major, 40th Regiment, To the Major of Brigade, Commanding Camp, Waitara. &c, &c, &c, Taranaki. No. 14. SERJEANT MARJOURAM TO MAJOR NELSON. Camp, Waitara, 24th June, 1860. Sir,— I beg to acquaint you that I have seen the Rev. Mr. Whiteley, who requested me to inform you, that he has just left the Waikato Pah, and the Chief " Hapurona" requested him to give his compliments to the Officer Commanding the Troops at the Waitara, and he was very much obliged to the soldiers for expending a little ammunition on their party yesterday. But he was not quite ready to fight yet, and in future he intended to keep a white flag flying, *nd he expected the Officer Commanding to do the same at the Camp. And it was to be understood that while their flags were flying no fighting would take place. But if any of the soldiers fired upon any of the Maories, he would consider us to be taking unfair advantage, and in that case he should know how to act. Mr. Whiteley also stated, that it was his opinion the Natives were not yet prepared to make much resistance, but in two or three days' time their plans would be complete. I have, &c, W. Marjouram, Sergeant R.A. The Officer Commanding the Troops, Waitara.

No. 14. SERJEANT MARJOURAM TO MAJOR NELSON. Camp, Waitara, 24th June, 1860. Sir, — I beg to acquaint you that I have seen the Rev. Mr. Whiteley, who requested me to inform you, that he has just left the Waikato Pah, and the Chief " Hapurona" requested him to give his compliments to the Officer Commanding the Troops at the Waitara, and he was very much obliged to the soldiers for expending a little ammunition on their party yesterday. But he was not quite ready to fight yet, and in future he intended to keep a white flag flying, «nd he expected the Officer Commanding to do the same at the Camp. And it was to be understood that while their flags were flying no fighting would take place. But if any of the soldiers fired upon any of the Maories, he would consider us to be taking unfair advantage, and in that case he should know how to act. Mr. Whiteley also stated, that it was his opinion the Natives were not yet prepared to make much resistance, but in two or three days' time their plans would be complete. I have, &c, W. Marjotjram, Sergeant E.A. The Officer Commanding the Troops, Waitara.

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E—No. Sc 8

FURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO

No. 15. MAJOR NELSON TO MAJOR OF BRIGADE. Camp, Waitara, 25th June, 1860. Sir, — I have the honor to acquaint you, for the information of the Colonel Commanding the Forces, with reference to my Eeport of the 23rd instant, relating to the Waikato Pah, and my Letter of yesterday, with copy of a Message ; that I have directed Captain Richards, 40th Regiment, to proceed in the steamer " Tasmanian Maid" to Taranaki, to afford such further information as the Colonel Commanding may desire. This Officer is also charged with a communication regarding a mode of attack, which I venture to suggest for the consideration of superior authority. If the rebels attempt to come again on Her Majesty's land, I shall at once move out to dislodge them. I have this morning caused a Union Jack to be hoisted ; the other, the White Ensign being worn out. The usual party went out this morning for potatoes ; and at J-past 10 am. a white flag (without the black cross) was hoisted at the Waikato Pah. I have, &c, Thomas Nelson, Major. 40th Regiment, Commanding Camp, Waitara. To the Major of Brigade, &c, &c, &c, Taranaki.

No. 16. MAJOR OP BRIGADE TO MAJOR NELSON. " New Plymouth, 26th June, 1860, In consequence of the representations contained in your letter of yesterday, I am directed by the Colonel Commanding the Forces to acquaint you that he sends down per Tasmanian Maid an augmentation to your force as per margin, and he trusts that with them you will be enabled to teach the troublesome Nativee a lesson they will not easily forget. You will be pleased to take every necessary precaution against the wily foe, as regards ambuscades which the friendly Natives would be the best to discover, and also if possible cut off their retreat. From the elevated position of the rebels, a good view can be obtained of your Camp, which must be left amply garrisoned ; all remaining on duty, armed and accoutred. I have caused ample information to be afforded to Captain Richards, 40th Regiment, and Lieut. McNaghten, R.A., and I am desired to add iJiat Colouel Gold, (from your former experience) relies confidently on the result of your proceedings. I have, &c, Jamks Paul, „ . „ , Captain, 65th Regiment, 40th Regiment, ° Commanding Troops, Waitara. No. 17. CAPTAIN RICHARDS TO MAJOR NELSON. Camp, Waitara, 26th June, 1860. Sir,— I have the honor to report to you my arrival in Camp at this Station, from Taranaki, to which place I was despatched by your order for the purpose of receiving instructions and orders, for your guidance from Colonel Gold Commanding Troops, and have to inform you, that the Colonel Commanding desired me to convey to you his order to make an attack on the " Puketakauere" Pah, at about 7 a.m. to-morrow morning ; and at the same time, he begged to offer you his best wishes for success. „. ... J nave, Ice, Major Nelson, T . B# RicH arus, 40th Regiment, Captain, 40th Regiment. Commanding Troops, Camp, Waitara.

No. 17. CAPTAIN RICHARDS TO MAJOR NELSON. Camp, Waitara, 26th June, 1860. Sik, — I have the honor to report to you my arrival in Camp at this Station, from Taranaki, to which place I was despatched by your order for the purpose of receiving instructions and orders, for your guidance from Colonel Gold Commanding Troops, and have to inform you, that the Colonel Commanding desired me to convey to you his order to make an attack on the " Puketakauere" Pah, at about 7 a.m. to-morrow morning ; and at the same time, he begged to offer you his best wishes for success. „. ... J nave, Ice, Major Nelson, T . B . Richards, 40th Regiment, Captain, 40th Regiment. Commanding Troops, Camp, Waitara.

Royll Engineer.— 1 subaltern Royal Artillery— 1 subaltern 1 sergeant Iβ gunner* 40ih Regiment— 1 subaltern 1 sergeant 1 drummer •6 rank and file

THE NATIVE INSURRECTION.

9 E—No 3c

No. 18. MAJOR NELSON TO MAJOR OF BRIGADE. Camp, Waitara, 27th June, 1860. Sir,— I have the honor to inform you, for the information of the Colonel Commanding the Forces, (in reference to your letter of yesterday's date), that I moved out this morning at 5 o'clock with the detail noted in the margin, to attack the new pahs on the mounds on the South East of the Camp, and returned from thence to Camp at half-past 11 a.m. The attack was commenced by the Artillery at 7 a. m , at a range of 400 yards to the North West of the pahs. A breach was, however, not made in the large pah of a sufficient size to justify me in ordering the men to assault it. During the time the Artillery was playing on the pah large bodies of Maories were seen advancing from the rear and occupying in extended order a ditch and bank, about 400 yards in advance of our Right Flank, from which they kept up a constant fire. Seeing there was no means of entering the pah, I immediately ordered an advance towards the ditch and bank just mentioned, which was made in the most continued and gallant manner, until the, men reached a deep ravine with an entrenchment behind, and which they found impossible to pass, it being defended by two, if not even three large bodies of Maories, who were almost entirely concealed behind it; and another entrenchment in rear as well as the very high fern. Here a desperate and destructive fire was opened upon us, and most gallantly returned. Our skirmishers being far fewer in number and exposed in a much greater degree than the enemy, I deemed it advisable to direct them to joiu the main body ; and our ammunition being nearly expended, I withdrew the whole of the men, and returned to Camp in regular ordor. I regret to have to report that the casualties have been numerous ; but when, (as it is supposed the whole of William King's Natives came down the support the Waikato in the pahs, the whole amounting apparently to about 800 men, foremost among whom was a European who was shot dead,) it cannot be considered that the number is great, in proportion to those opposed to us. Among the deaths I have to lament that of Lieutenant Brooke, 40th Regiment, a young Officer of much promise, who fell in the noble discharge of his duty, and <29 Non-Commissioned Officers and Men of the different corps Among the wounded, Captain Seymeur, R.N., severely, and 33 NonCommissioned Officers and Men of the different corps. I enclose a return of casualties. The loss of the rebels, from personal observations, must have been very great. I cannot speak too highly of the gallant bearing of the Officers and Men of all arms engaged, and I would particularly beg to mention the valuable services rendered by the several Officers in command, ■viz. : Lieutenant McNaghten, R. A., Lieutenant Battiscombe, R. N., Lieutenant Morris, R. M., and Captains Bowdler and Richards, 40th Regiment. I would also desiie to express my sense of the very valuable services of Captain Seymour, R. N., who was so good as to accompany me and afford me every assistance until he was severely wounded. I feel much indebted to Assistant-Surgeon B. Stiles, 40th Regiment ; Assistant-Surgeon Edwardes, R. N., and Mr. J. R. Murray, M D., Surgeon, attached to the 40th Regiment, for the very efficient assistance they afforded to the wounded in the field. And my best thanks are due to Lieutenant Mould, R. E., who attended me, and my Staff Officer, Ensign Whelan, actiDg Adjutant, Detachment 40th Regiment. I have, &c, Thomas Nelson. The Major of Brigade, Major 40th Regiment, &c, &c, &c, Commanding Camp, Waitara. Taranaki. sp. m.—l have just visited the wounded in the whares and hospital tent. There are a few dangerous cases (about 5) ; the remainder are doing as well as could be expected. T - N -

Iloyal Artillery— 1 officer 1 sergeant If) gunners Royal Engineers — 1 officer G rank and Hie < Naval Brigade— 4 officer* 50 blue jackets Royal Marine Artillery— 1 officer 10 rank and file 40th Resell! officers 24J N. C. officers and men

Enclosure in No. 18. LIST shewing the number KILLED and WOUNDED on the 27th JUNE, 1860.

B. Stiles, Assistant-Surgeon, 40th Regiment.

Killed. Wounded. Corps. a I 5 CO I 3 I .3 s g S c & I 1 11 I i I .., 3 Koyal Artillery 1 3 25 1 3 I 25 I Royal Na\-al Brigade - 1 1 ... 8 40 th Regiment 1 ... '21 1 1 1 ... ... 32 Total

E—No. 3c

FURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO

No. 19. MAJOR NELSON TO MAJOR OF BRIGADE. Camp, Waitara, 28th June, 1860. Sir,— I have the honor, with the view of affording the Colonel Commanding the Forces the means of knowing the exact detail of orders issued by me personally, and likewise explained, to the several Officers in command of the Divisions composing the Force under my command at the assault of the Waikato Pas on the morning of the 27th instant, to forward a copy of the same. I forward this by Captain Richards, 40th Regiment, who will be able to afford such further information as the Colonel Commanding may desire. I have, &C, Thomas Nelson, Major, 40th Regiment, Commanding Camp, The Major of Brigade, W aitara. &c, &c, &c., Taranaki.

Enclosure in No. 19. Camp, Waitara, 28th June, 1860. Detail of Orders given by Major Nelson, 40<A Regiment, to Officers in command of Divisions proceeding to the attack of the IVaikato Pah. Captain Bowdler in command of the Ist Division was ordered to proceed and occupy the small mound to the South East of the Camp, and on the sound of the Advance to rush up the ridge on the Devon Road, to join the main body. The object of this movement, being to prevent the enemy escaping along our left flank, and attacking the Camp ; and if not, then to enter the Pa, with the main body. Captain Messenger in command of the 2nd Division was ordered to take possession of and occupy a mound situated to the North of the Pa about to be attacked, with directions not to extend until the advance sounded, unless the enemy threatened his flanks, or the rear of his position; his principal duty being to cut off the retreat of the enemy from the Pa, and likewise to cut off any reinforcements which might be forwarded from the Pas situated in rear of his position. The head quarters of the Force consisting of the guns (two 24-pounder howitzers), naval brigade, and the third division of the 40th Regiment, under the command of Captain Richards, the whole under the immediate command of Major Nelson, were to advance across the Devon line to the attack of the Pa. The necessity of the two first-mentioned Divisions occupying the positions assigned to them was clearly proved, as a large body of Natives made an advance in that direction—no doubt with the intention of attacking the Camp, their further advance being frustrated by the opposing force. I have, &c, Thomas Nelson, Major, 40th Regiment, Commanding Camp, Waitart. No. 20. MAJOR NELSON TO MAJOR OF BRIGADE. Camp, Waitara, 29th June, 1860. Sir,— I have the honor to report, for the information of the Colonel Commanding the Forces, that the Rev. Mr. Govett and the Rev. Mr. Whitely arrived at the Camp this day about 2 o'clock, p.m., and informed me that they had an interview with some of the Natives at the Waikato Pah, who had said if I would not fire upon them (as had been done in the morning, when any were within range) and would cause a white flag to be hoisted, they would bury the dead who had fallen in their vicinity. The Rev. Mr. Whiteley stated he had seen a mound where some appeared to have been buried. I, therefore, directed a signal of two sheets, at intervals of about 18 yards, to be hoisted; and shortly after, two white flags were similarly hoisted from the Pah. Natives were then observed to come out and apparently to be occupied as had they intimated, until sunset.

No. 20. MAJOR NELBON TO MAJOR OF BRIGADE. Camp, Waitara, 29th June, 1860. Sir,— I have the honor to report, for the information of the Colonel Commanding the Forces, that the Rev. Mr. Govett and the Rev. Mr. Whitely arrived at the Camp this day about 2 o'clock, p.m and informed me that they had an interview with some of the Nalives at the Waikato Pah, who had said if I would not fire upon them (as had been done in the morning, when any were within range), and would cause a white flag to be hoisted, they would bury the dead who had fallen in their vicinity.' The Rev. Mr. Whiteley stated he had seen a mound where some appeared to have been buried. I, therefore, directed a signal of two sheets, at intervals of about 18 yards, to be hoisted; and shortly after, two white flags were similarly hoisted from the Pah. Natives were then observed to come out and apparently to be occupied as had they intimated until sunset.

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9, a.m., 30th June, 1860. The two white flags being hoisted at the Pah, I directed ours to be again hoisted, and so continued all day. I have, &c, To the Major of Brigade, Thomas Nelson, &c, &c, &c, Major, 40th Regiment, Taranaki. Commanding Camp, Waitara.

No. 21. MAJOR NELSON TO MAJOR OF BRIGADE. Camp, Waitara, 2nd July, 1860. SIR,— I have the honor to report for the information of the Colonel Commanding the Forces, that there was only one flag hoisted at the Waikato Pah this morning ; which appeared to be thenfighting flag ;—this was on a short pole. The haulyards of their Flagstaff having been apparently carried away. At about 1 o'clock, p.m., this day, the flag was lowered, and continued so at sunset. The flag at this Camp has been hoisted as usual. I have, &c, Thomas Nelson; The Major of Brigade, Major, 40th Eegiment, &c., &c, &c., Commanding Camp, Waitara. Taranaki. No. 22. CAPTAIN RICHARDS TO MAJOR NELSON. Camp, Waitara, July 3rd, 1860. Sir,— I have the honor to report to you that I delivered the letters entrusted by you to me on the 28th ultimo, for transmission to Colonel Gold, Commanding the Forces at Taranaki, on that day. All questions relative to the disposition of the Forces under your command at the attack on the Waikato Pah on the 27th, were answered by me during my interview with Colonel Gold. During my stay at Taranaki, I waited on Colonel Gold on several occasions for the purpose of receiving orders, or suggestions from him, for your guidance, but could not obtain any further information beyond the fact of the " Airedale" having been despatched to Auckland for some guns of a heavier metal than those at the present time in his possession. I returned to this station on the 2nd July, 18G0. I have, &c, T. B. Richards, Major Nelson, Captain, 40th Regiment. Commanding Forces, Camp, Waitara. No. 23. COLONEL GOLD TO THE GOVERNOR. New Plymouth, 30th June, 1860. Sir,— . I have the honor to forward for the information of your Excellency the enclosed copy of a correspondence on the subject of the recent engagement at the Waitara, together with the List of casualties sustained on that occasion. I have, &c, His Excellency the Governor of C. E. Gold, New Zealand. Colonel Commanding the Forces.

No. 22. CAPTAIN RICHARDS TO MAJOR NELSON. Camp, Waitara, July 3rd, 1860. Sir,— I hare the honor to report to you that I delivered the letters entrusted by you to me on the 28th ultimo, for transmission to Colonel Gold, Commanding the Forces at Taranaki, on that day. All questions relative to the disposition of the Forces under your command at the attack on the Waikato Pah on the 27th, were answered by me during my interview with Colonel Gold. During my stay at Taranaki, I waited on Colonel Gold on several occasions for the purpose of receiving orders, or suggestions from him, for your guidance, but could not obtain any further information beyond the fact of the " Airedale" having been despatched to Auckland for some guns of a heavier metal than those at the present time in his possession. I returned to this station on the 2nd July, 1860. I have, &c, T. B. Richards, Major Nelson, Captain, 40th Regiment. Commanding Forces, Camp, Waitara.

No. 23. COLONEL GOLD TO THE GOVERNOR. New Plymouth, 30th June, 1860. Sir,— . I have the honor to forward for the information of your Excellency the enclosed copy of a correspondence on the subject of the recent engagement at the Waitara, together with the List of casualties sustained on that occasion. I have, &c, His Excellency the Governor of C. E. Gold, New Zealand. Colonel Commanding the Forces.

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No. 24. THE GOVERNOR TO COLONEL GOLD. Government House, Auckland, sth July, I**o. Sir,— I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your Letter, dated 30th June, enclosing copies of a correspondence on the subject of the recent engagement at the Waitara. The conduct of Major Nelson, t'apt. Seymour, R.N , and the Officers, Non-Oommissioned Officers, and Privates engaged, deserves the highest commendation, and will doubtless meet Her Majesty's gracious approval. Looking at your own experience of the difficulty which attended the capture of a pah built in a very inferior manner in a single night, it does not appear clearly by your Letter why Major Nelson was directed to attack a pah in so formidable a position, known to be strongly fortified, with so small a force, and without support and assistance from New Plymouth. The occurrences reported in your Letter remove all necessity for restraint in our future dealings with any Natives in arms against Her Majesty's Government. I have therefore only to instruct you generally that it is necessary they should be brought into submission, and to remind you {vide my Despatch of 28th May) of the importance of carrying into complete effect any operations you may undertake, as the Maories invariably construe even escape into victory. You will take such means as you think proper to carry this object into effect, and may rely upon my most immediate attention to your wishes and the utmost assistance in my power to afford. I have, &c, T. Gore BroWnb. The Honourable Colonel Gold, Commanding Her Majesty's Forces in New Zealand.

No. 25. COLONEL GOLD TO THE GOVERNOR. New Plymouth, 9th July, 1860. Sir,— With reference to Your Excellency's Letter of the sth inst., I have the honor to explain with regard to that part which remarks on my having directed Major Nelson "to attack a pah, &c," that the reinforcement I sent him was to enable him to punish the Natives in such manner as he deemed most advisable, as they had been encroaching on our lands; and that he should have the same information that I had received, I caused Capt. Richards, 40th Regiment, to learn from the Rev. Mr. Whiteley's own mouth the state of affairs at the pah, &c, on the Sunday previous, that he might give a correct account to Major Nelson when he went down. No attack was ordered on the pah by me, but everything was left to the Major's own discretion from his personal observation, and he had also with him Lieut. Mould, R.E,, and Lieut. MacNaghten, R.A., both of whom had been on service against the Pah, at the Waitara on previous occasions. I have, &c, C. E. Gold. His Excellency the Governor, &c, &c, &c. Auckland. No. 26. TUB GOVERNOR TO COMMODORE LORING, C.B. Government House, Auckland, Cth July, 1860. Sib,I have the honor to Tequest you to be good enough to send H.M.S.S. '' Cordelia" and as many men as can be spared from other ships to Taranaki with the least possible delay. Should you go yourself I would request you to place yourself in com i mini cation with the Officer commanding Il.M.'s Forces, and offer to co-operate with him in any undertaking he may be engaged in or desire to commence without delay. Should he not be prepared to renew active operations, or as soon as possible after he has completed any which he may commence, I beg you to return to Auckland with all convenient speed. * » * 1 have, Bee, T. Gore Brottoe. Commodore Loring, C.8., &c, &c, &c. H. M. S. " Iris."

No. 26. TUB GOVERNOR TO COMMODORE LORING, C.B. Government House, Auckland, Cth July, 1860. I have the honor to Tequest you to be good enough to send H.M.S.S. '' Cordelia" and as many men as can be spared from other ships to Taranaki with the least possible delay. Should you go yourself I would request you to place yourself in com 1 mini cation with the Officer commanding ll.M.'s Forces, and offer to co-operate with him in any undertaking he may be engaged in or desire to commence without delay. Should he not be prepared to renew active operations, or as soon as possible after be has completed any which he may commence, I beg you to return to Auckland with all convenient speed. * * • 1 have, &c, T. Gore Beottnb. Commodore Loring, C.8., &c, &c, &c. H. M. S. " Iris."

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No. 27. THE GOVERNOR TO COLONEL GOLD. Auckland, 7th July, 1860. Sib, — 1 have the honor to inform you that at my request Commodore Loring, C. 8., takes some Marines and Sailors from H. M.S. " Ins" and H.M.C.S. "Victoria," and goes in the " Cordelia" to Taranaki. On arriving there the Commodore will offer his services and those of 180 men for any operation you may desire to undertake without delay. The late reverse has had a very unfavourable influence on our relations with the Maoris generally, and if you see the means of making a combined attack and striking an effective blow, ii would be very desirable. Should this not be possible (of which I do not offer any opinion) I have to request you to ask Commodore Loring to return. * * * I have, &c, T. Goke Browns. The Honourable Colonel Gold, Commanding ll.M.'s Forces in New Zealand.

No. 28. THE GOVERNOR TO COLONEL GOLD. Government House, Auckland, 12th July, 1860. Silt,— The assurances of friendship given by influential Chiefs assembled at the Conference in Auckland liave enabled me to request Commodore Loring, C.8., to return to New Plymouth. * * * • Believing that some decided and indisputable success at Taranaki is absolutely necessary to prevent other tribes fiom joining those now in arms against us, I have been most anxious to place every available man at your disposal and have incurred some risk in so doing—you will now have upwards of 2000 men of all ranks, and a large force of Artillery under your command, and you will I trust be able to strike a vigorous and effective blow on the rebel forces either on the North ov South of New Plymouth. In urging this upon you, I beg you not to suppose that I desire you to exceed the bounds of prudence or to forget that another reverse would be attended with disastrous consequences. ****** I have, &c, The Honourable Colonel Gold, T. Gore Brownb. Commanding ll.M.'s Forces in New Zealand. No. 29. THE GOVERNOR TO MAJOK-GENERAL PRATT, C.B. Government House, Auckland, 27th July, 18G0. Sir,— I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your Letter, dated Melbourne, 15th July, and thank you very much for your immediate attention to my request. It may be important to you to know that the main strength of the Natives supposed to be disaffected to H.M.s Government, is in the tribes dwelling near the Waikato, and in the centre of the Island. It is from thence that the Chief Wm. King has received support and expects more, and that a descent upon Auckland has been contemplated. **•*♦**• I took advantage of the temporary security to request Commodore Loring, C.8., to go to Taranaki, with all the men he could collect. »**•••*# By that opportunity I wrote also to Colonel Gold as follows :— * * * " Believing that " gome decided and indisputable success at Taranaki is absolutely necessary to prevent other Tribes " from joining those now in arms against us, I have b^en most anxious to place every available man at " your disposal, and have incurred some risk in so doing. You will now have upwards of two thousand " men of all ranks and a large force of Artillery under your command, and you will, I trust, be able to " strike a vigorous and effective blow on the rebel Forces either on the Isorth or South of New Ply- " mouth." " In urging this upon you I beg you not to suppose that I desire jou to exceed the bounds of li prudence." * * * Ido not of course presume to offer any advice on Military operations, but I trust you will permit me to say that, though some unequivocal success is absolutely required, * * * and that delay will add to the strength and confidence of our opponents, and weaken both the number and faith of our adherents, no precaution which can be adopted to ensure victory and avoid surprise ought to be neglected.

No. 29. THE GOVERNOR TO MAJOK-GENERAL PRATT, C.B. Government House, Auckland, 27th July, 18G0. Sir,— I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your Letter, dated Melbourne, 15th July, and thank you very much for your immediate attention to my request. It may be important to you to know that the main strength of the Natives supposed to be disaffected to H.M.s Government, is in the tribes dwelling near the Waikato, and in the centre of the Island. It is from thence that the Chief Wm. King has received support and expects more, and that a descent upon Auckland has been contemplated. **•»♦**• I took advantage of the temporary security to request Commodore Loring, C.8., to go to Taranaki, with all the men he could collect. By that opportunity I wrote also to Colonel Gold as follows :— * * * " Believing that " gome decided and indisputable success at Taranaki is absolutely necessary to prevent other Tribes " from joining those now in arms against us, I have Ijeen most anxious to place every available man at " your disposal, and have incurred some risk in so doing. You will now have upwards of two thousand " men of all ranks and a large force of Artillery under your command, and you will, I trust, be able to " strike a vigorous and effective blow on the rebel Forces either on the Isorth or South of New Ply- " mouth." " In urging this upon you I beg you not to suppose that I desire )ou to exceed the bounds of '■ prudence." * * * Ido not of course presume to offer any advice on Military operations, but I trust you will permit me to say that, though some unequivocal success is absolutely required, * * * and that delay will add to the strength and confidence of our opponents, and weaken both the number and faith of our adherents, no precaution which can be adopted to ensure victory and avoid surprise ought to be neglected.

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Aided by the strength of their country, and fighting in their own fashion, the Maoris are brave and formidable enemies, and they boast with some truth that since our first arrival in the Colony the British Troops have gained no decided advantage over them though our Arms have always been immeasurably superior, and our number often in excess of theirs. Finally, I would beg the favour of your protection and kindness for the friendly Natives—more particularly for the Chiefs Mahau, Apeharua, Ihaia, and Teira, and their men : they have proved themselves faithful allies, and their lives would be instantly sacrificed if they were deprived of our protection. It is however quite true that all Maoris will communicate intelligence to the enemy ; so far from considering such conduct shameful, they look upon it as right and, chivalrous. It is possible that Ihaia and a few others might not communicate with the enemy under any circumstances, but their ■women and their followers would do so. This inconvenience however being known, may easily be guarded against, and should not induce us to look with suspicion on men so thoroughly attached to us as these Chiefs have proved themselves to be. I would beg the favour of your communicating freely with Mr. Parris, who is placed at your disposal, and will give you the best information on Native Affairs ; I do not desire that you should be influenced by him in opposition to your own more experienced judgment, but as he possesses my confidence and that of the Government, lam anxious you should hoar his opinion on Native matters. I beg to assure you of my most earnest and active support in everything which you may consider needful to bring this unhappy disturbance to an early conclusion. I send you copies of some papers printed for the Assembly which may be useful to you, I aye, &c, T. Gore Browne. Major-General Pratt, C.8., Commanding H.M. Forces, &c, &c, &c, Taranaki.

No. 30. MAJOR-GENERAL PRATT, C.8., TO GOVERNOR GORE BROWNE, C.B. Head Quarters, New Plymouth, 30th August, 1860. Sir,— With reference to my personal communication with your Excellency on the 26th instant, as to future operations here, which had been contemplated, I have the honor to acquaint you of the occurrences that have taken place, which must of course modify and alter them. On the 25th iust. the rebel force which had intrenched themselves opposite to the camp oa the Waireka suddenly retired, and their position has been destroyed by our force. It is not easy to give you any definite reason for this move on their part; but it is believed that the death of two Chiefs, named Abraham Witoi, Hoani of Ngatiruanui, who were killed, also Reapena, Tahana, Witi Wane, and Meneiapa, who, with several others not known, were wounded, has led to this step ; part of them have gone back to Tataramaki, others to Tukuporu, not far from Omata. Again, on the 2?th inst., Major Nelson reports that Wiremu Kingi's pah, Puketakauare, was in his possession and being destroyed; it was believed to have been vacated on the same day on which the rebels retired from the Waireka; a small party of Waikatos are known to have crossed the Waitara on return homewards with plunder, and W. Kingi's people are stated to have returned to a pah in the interior. I have written to have the site of the pah reported upon, with a view to its occupation as a Military Post if found suitable, which I believe it to be, It is not easy to understand these simultaneous movements; our friendly Natives believe them to refer to an attack on the Town, but this is all conjecture. As yet Her Majesty's Ship " Fawn" has not arrived, nor has the " White Swan," so that none of the families—who have all been warned—have yet been embarked for Nelson. I have, however, arranged to tranship the mails and passengers ot the " Airedale" to the Victoria," which proceeds thie evening to Auckland, while the former takes as large a number of the women and children as possible to Nelson. The Victoria will remain in the Manukau to bring your European Mail to Taranaki on the 9th proximo, and will during the interval get some necessary repairs made to the Ship. A body of Natives were reported as being about two miles north of the Town on the Waitoakaie on the 29th inst., and I sent out a party of, rank and file to attack them, but not a Native could be seen, all having retired to the bueh. I shall keep your Excellency informd as to our further movements consequent on the altered state of affairs. I have, &c, T. S. Pratt, Major-General Commanding. To His Excellency, Colonel Gore Browne, C.8., Governor and Commander-in-Chief, New Zealand.

(No. 271.)

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No. 31. MAJOR-GENERAL PRATT, C.8., TO GOVERNOR GORE BROWNE, C.B. Head Quarters, New Plymouth, Taranaki, Bth September, 1860. Sik,— In continuation of my Letter of the 30th ultimo, I have the honor to state for Your Excellency's information and that of the General Government, that H.M.S. S. " Fawn" having arrived in this Port, Commodore Loring was kind enough to send her to Wellington to bring up two heavy guns which were required. Finding from a report made to me by friendly Natives that the " Pukutotarei" Pah on the " Waerakaiho" was evacuated and that they were in it, I sent out a. party of soldiers on the 2nd inst. and destroyed it; it wa9 from this Pah that the marauding parties of the enemy used to issue. On the same date two Pahs between the Bell Block and the Waitara named " Te Puki" and "Te Turia" were destroyed by the 12th Regiment stationed at the Hua. On the 3rd instant two Pahs named " Kirihi" and " Tikiringi" on the north bank of the Waitara belonging to W. Kingi were destroyed by Major Nelson; all three Pahs had been deserted by the enemy. At midnight of the 4th instant I proceeded to Burton's farm, about 6 miles from this, on the Omata Road, with a force of 700 men divided into three columns, in the hope of surprising a considerable party of the rebels who were observed there; but though the right column, with which I was, reached the position an hour before daylight, '.re found that the enemy, either from information obtained, or from some ether cause, had left the place shortly before. I withdrew the detachment stationed at the Waireka on the 7th inst., with a view of concentrating the Forces preparatory to further operations. In communication with Mr. McLean, Chief Commissioner, whose services are most valuable to me, I thought it advisable to complete the survey of the block of land purchased by Her Majesty's Government at the Waitara, and a surveying party proceeded to do so on the sth inst. I enclose a copy of a document from Mr. McLean, and beg to add that the recommendation was at once complied with. I have, &c, T. S. Pratt, Major-General Commanding. To Hie Excellency, Colonel Gore Browne, C.8., Governor and Commander-in-Chief, New Zealand.

No. 32. MAJOR-GENERAL PRATT, C.8., TO GOVERNOR GORE BROWNE, C.B. Head Quarters, New Plymouth, Taranaki, 12th September, 1860. Sir,— I have the honor to state, for the information of your Excellency aiid the Government, that having received information through the Native Department that three large Fahs, named " Ngatiparirua," " Kairau," and " Huirangi" were occupied by the rebel Maories. I determined to retain them if possible in their Pahs, and to attack them. With this object I moved from New Plymouth on the 10th instant, with a force of all arms of about 750 men, and encamped at Mahoetahi Pah; from thence I directed a division of my force, under Lieut.-Colonel Leslie. 40th Kegt., accompanied by Mr. Parris and some friendly natives, to proceed so as to arrive before daylight on the 1 lth instant and take up a position to the right and rear of the Pahs, or to prevent reinforcements reaching them from " Munutahi;" simultaneously, and with the same object, 1 directed another division under Major Nelson, 40th Regt., accompanied by the Naval Brigade under Commodore Loring, C. 8,, and Captain Beauchamp Seymour, to proceed along the banks of the Waitara and take up a position to the left and rear of the Pahs also before daylight both these divisions carried out their instructions most fully. The centre division, under Major Hutchins, 12th Regt., with myself and Staff, the Artillery, &c, moved along the Devon Road to the "L" Pah, about two miles from the Waitara Camp, where being joined by some heavy guns and rockets which I had ordered to meet me there, I proceeded in the direction of the Pahs, through high fern, and arrived before " Ngatiparirua" about 8 o'clock ; it appeared evacuated ; and having fired a few shells, and the advanced skirmishers having marched cautiously up, found it empty. It was not so stroug as I had been led to believe, and it was destroyed and burnt. The whole neighbourhood of this Pah, and in deep ditches round it, were filled with dead sheep, killed evidently fer the mere sake of destroying European property. On hearing our fire the right and left divisions closed upon us, and they advanced upon " Kairau" Pah, which was about 900 yards from Ngatiparirua ; that also was found undefended, and was entered

(No. 276.)

(No. 279.)

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by Major Nelson's division. This Pah was understood to be occupied by Hapurona, \V. Kiugi's fighting chief; was very strong, and surrounded inside by rifle pits and covered passages of the most ingenious construction ; it was destroyed and burnt. The troops then proceeded to the " Huirangi" Pah, about 1200 yards in rear of " Kairau" and close upon the bush, between which Maories were seen pussing to and fro, and before I could get some shells which I had ordered to be thrown into the bush in its roar, it was entered by Ihaia's natives and the advance of Major Nelson's division and found empty. Major Nelson's division then proceeded towards a small Pah to the left, but had not gone a few hundred yards when his advance was fired upon from an ambuscade in the bush. Shot, shell, and rockets were thrown in upon the unseen enemy, who kept up a smart fire, happily with little effect, and as it was impossible to penetrate the dense bush without heavy loss and little gain, and having accomplished what was intended, and burnt the " Huirangi" Pah, as also another small Pah to the right by Major Hutchins, I directed the troops to return to the oamp at Waitara, which they did in perfect order, aud even then the Maories would not shew themselves outside the bush. The casualties were one man missing, supposed killed, and four wounded, mostly slightly. I have only to add that, though disappoiutedjin not finding the rebels in the Pahs, I am informed by Mr. McLean that the destruction of the four Pahs will be attended with very good results ; and I must add that Mr. McLean, who accompanied me, has been of the greatest assistance, as also Mr. Drummond Hay, who, a night or two before our move, reconnoitred the Pahs at considerable risk, and ascertained their position and occupants. The troops of all arms marched during the night through a difficult country in the most excellent order, and the Officers conducted their respective duties in a manner which was all I could wish, and which 1 have not failed to bring to the notice of the Home Authorities. I enclose a tracing of the country which was furnished to each leader of a division, and which will render this Despatch more intelligible. I have, &c, T. S. Pratt, Major-General Commanding. To His Excellency Colonel Gore Browne, C.8., Governor and Commander-in-chief, &c, &c, &c, New Zealand.

No. 33. THE GOVERNOR TO MAJOR-GENERAL PRATT, C.B. Government House, Auckland, 18th September, 18G0. Sir,— I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your Letters dated Bth and 12th of September, detailing the operations of the Troops under your command, and the destruction of various Pahs belonging to the rebels. I join with you in lamenting that you have been unable to make any seriou3 impression upon them, and am aware that they and the tribes who sympathize with them will construe their escape and the retirement of the Troops into a success on their own part. The season which is about to commence is, however, that in which the Maoris usually occupy themselves in planting, and is the time when they may be most successfully harassed ; I have no doubt therefore that a system of sudden, secret, and constant attack—when and where they least expect it — conducted by energetic Officers confident of support at appointed places—acting with enough of personal responsibility to excite ambition,—will so distress the Natives in your neighbourhood that when their allies return, both parties will be disheartened and glad to end their trouble by submission. I am sure that a force encumbered with baggage can never overtake men so active and so alert as the Maoris have proved themselves to be. The difficulty of carrying out such a system of guerilla warfare with regular troops is no doubt very great, but unless you can effect your object during the ensuing season, the war may be continued indefinitely. I venture to suggest the employment of Officers and Men who are willing to volunteer for this sort of service on being assured of support; and that no exertion should be spared to clear the land round and between the positions you intend , to occupy ;—for this last purpose Natives or settlers might be employed and paid, in the manner you think right. It would be of course absurd to urge you to undertake operations, and, at the same time, suggest the reduction of your force, I beg therefore to say that though I forward Commodore Loring's Letter for your consideration, I shall have no hesitation in requesting that the Naval Brigade may not be removed unless you are satisfied it can be done without interfering with the operations you will doubt'<ess think it necessary to undertake without loss of time. Jcordially agree in your opinion as to the necessity of large reinforcements for the protection of tne settlements generally, and to enable us to meet other combinations which may arise after the planting season is over ; but no reinforcements can place us in a better position than we are in at the present time at Taranaki—where our numbers are considerably in excess of those which the Maoris can

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collect. In November this proportion may be reversed, even should we receive considerable reinforcements in the meantime. 1 beg again to assure you of my earnest desire to co-operate most cordially with you, and to supply all that you may require as far as it is in my power to do so. I have, &c, T. Gore Browne. Major-General Pratt, C.8., Commanding H.M.s Forces, &c, &c, &c. Tarauaki.

No. 34. .UAJOU-GENEKL PiIATT, C.B , TO GOVERNOR GORE BROWNE, C.B, Head Quarters, New Plymouth, Taranaki, 29th September, 1860. Sir, — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of Your Excellency's Despatch of the 18th instant, received on the 25th instant, and with reference to the first paragraph to state that whilst in my Despatches 1 regretted that the Rebels did not remain to defend their pahs and positions, still I consider that the destruction of the pahs before their eyes, and their being obliged to retire to the bush cannot but be attended with good results, and in this opinion I am coincided in by those whose knowledge of the native character is unquestionable. Your Excellency expresses an opinion that the season which is now about to commence, being that in which the Maories usually occupy themselves in planting, is the time when they may be most successfully harassed, and that a system of secret, sudden, and constant attack when and where they least expect it, will greatly distress and dishearten them, and further, that the Troops so employed ought not to be encumbered wish baggage. Before entering upon this, I think it desirable to recapitulate as shortly as possible the state in which I found this Province on my landing on the 3rd of last month, and the events which have occurred since that date. I found the settlers driven in from their farms, their cattle seized, and other property destroyed, many of their homes burnt, the enemy in the immediate vicinity round the town, an attack on it avowedly threatened, the place crowded with women and children whose only safety was the presence of the Troops, and the defences in a very imperfect state. The total armed Force in the whole Province, Naval Brigade, Militia and Volunteers included, amounted to 2292 rank and file, of which 955 were stationed at various outposts, which being constantly threatened by the enemy could not be abandoned ; of the remainder about 3-tO, including the great majority of the Militia and Volunteers, were non-effective either from sickness or from being engaged in civil employment. Thus the whole available force at my disposal in, and in Blockhouses about the Town, amounted to 1000 or thereby. No certain information could be obtained with regard to the numbers of the enemy, which was estimated, by those best able to judge, at about 1700, who were divided into two bodies, one of which, consisting of W. Kingi's followers, assisted by some of the Waikatos, occupied the strong pah Puketakauere, little more than a mile from the Camp on the Waitara. This pah was connected with the bush by a chain of smaller pahs, some of them of considerable strength, by which the enemy were enabled to bring reinforcements to the front with great ease and rapidity. The other body comprised the Southern natives, Taranakis and Ngatiruanuis, who were busily engaged in the construction of considerable works within a few hundred yards of the YVaireka Camp. These two bodies were able to communicate freely with one another under cover of the forest which, as Your Excellency is aware, extends to within a short distance of the town, and from which detached parties of the rebels were in the habit of creeping out, sometimes by day, but more frequently by night, for the purpose of murdering stragglers and plundering and burning the property of the settlers, but although the enemy were usually distributed in the manner just described, there was nothing to prevent them from uniting their whole force at any time, either on the town itself, or any other part which they might consider assailable. Your Excellency will observe therefore that' before undertaking any active operations in the field, with a sufficient force, it was indispensable that the safety of the women and children should be secured by the completion of the defences of the town, and by the removal of as many of them as possible to a distance from the seat of war ; for the former of these I took immediate steps by intrenching and stockading a limited enceinte with a view of reducing the number required for the defence of the town, and thus giving more disposable men for the field, and I practised the garrison at occupying the lines they were to defend ; for the latter, I embarked the families to the extent in my power, and proceeded to Auckland with a view of arranging this and other matters with Your Excellency. Your Excellency and the General Government having authorised me to send to Nelson as many of the women and children as I might think desirable, and having made arrangements lor their

(No. 297.)

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transport, I lost no time after my return to New Plymouth on the 28th August, in causing to be warned for embarkation as many of them as the vessels placed at my disposal were able to accommodate. I regret to say, however, that in my endeavours to carry out this very desirable measure, I did not meet with that cordial co-operation on the part of the Civil Authorities of the Province, which, in the delicate position I was placed in, I had a right to expect, and thrf people shewed so much unwillingness to leave the place that after only about 112 women and 282 children had been shipped, I found that without resorting to actual force no more could be induced to go. Under these circumstances T found myself most reluctantly compelled to abandon a measure whicli I believed to be essential to the efficient prosecution of the war and the sanitary state of the town. In the meantime I neglected no opportunity of attacking the enemy wherever he shewed himself. On the 20th August a number of rebels having been seen on the cleared ground near Elliott's farm, I despatched a party of 250 men under Lieut.-Colonel Murray, 65th Regiment, ■who, after ;i skirmish, in which the enemy suffered some loss, with no casualty uri our side, drove them back into ihe bush. The detachment at the Waireka under Major Ilutchins, 12th Regiment, succeeded on several occasions in inflicting loss on the eremy without any casualty on our part. On my return from Auckland I found that the enemy had abandoned their strong positions at Puketakuere and Waireka, which were immediately destroyed by the Troops, and a large portion of them left t't>e neighbourhood, the Waikatos going northward, and the Ngatiruanuis and a part of the Taranakis, south. I have not been able to learn the cause of this sudden and unexpected alteration in their plans, but it is certain that whatever may have been the motive it cannot have been long premeditated, as nearly up to the day of their departure, they continued to improve their defensive works, which, at Waireka especially, were of very considerable extent, and must have cost them a vast amount of labour. I looked upon this movement as a subject rather of regret than of congratulation, as it prevented me from carrying out my intention of attacking; Puketakauere the position of which, owing to its distance from the bush, offered perhaps a more favourable opportunity than any which is likely to occur again of surrounding and cutting off the retreat of the enemy. I have, in previous Despatches, informed your Excellency of the successive attempts which I subsequently made to surround and surprise the rebels, the result of which has been to convince me of the utter hopelessness of all endeavours to prevent their escape from any place which they do not intend to defend. I cannot, however, agree with you in thinking that these operations can by any possibility be construed by them into a retirement on the part of the Troops and a success on their own. The actual state of the case is as follows :— During the past few weeks the Troops under my command have destroyed between 20 and 30 pahs, many of them very recently built, and provided with rifle pits and other defences, constructed in the most careful and elaborate manner. The rebels did not venture to defend any of these places but deserted them all on the approach of the Troops, in some cases in such haste that on our entry we found meat half cooked on their fires. We have also destroyed a great number ot " whares" or native habitations, and a considerable quantity of provisions. During thb whole of this period the enemy have been suffering very severely from sickness caused by privation and exposure, and I have certain information that they have lost a good many men, including several of their most influential Chiefs, who have been killed in action or have died of their wounds. The whole of our casualties, on the other hand, throughout all these operations, amount to only one man killed and four wounded. I cannot conceive that such a result can be looked upon as a success on the part of the enemy. The plan which your Excellency proposes of harassing them by secret, sudden, and constant attacks by bodies of Troops without baggage is, in my opinion, impracticable. It is impossible to surprise them, as the scouts who are constantly on the watch about their pahs will always give them sufficient notice to enable them to effect their escape should they be desirous of doing so, or to prepare for defence if they mean to remain. Experience has proved that to send Troops unprovided with artillery to attack a pah entails certain failure, accompanied with a useless loss both of men and of prestige. I consider it of the highest importance, not only to the successful termination of the present war, but to the future peace of the Colony, that the Maories should become convinced of the superiority of the Troops in warfare, and of the hopelessness of their endeavouring to gain any material advantage over us ; and I cannot think that it would be wise or justifiable knowingly to place the Troops in a position in which that superiority would disappear or perhaps be converted into inferiority. I arrive ;>t a different conclusion from the opinion expressed by your Excellency, that the present excess of our numbers over those of the enemy in this Province places us in a more favourable position for the prosecution of the war than we shall probably l>e in two or three months hence, when the proportion may be reversed ; on the contrary, the principal difficulties with which I have now to contend arise from this very cause, and I am satisfied that any increase in their numbers which might give them sufficient confidence, either to defend a pah in an accessible position, or to accept battle in the open country, would lead to a mucli more satisfactory result than a lengthened continuance of the present state of affairs. In conclusion, I beg to assure your Excellency that no exertion that I can make, or nojopportunity shall be lost of harassing the enemy in any way in my power, and thus endeavouring to terminate this unhappy war. I have, &c, T. S. Pratt, Major-General Commanding. To His Excellency Colonel Thomas Gore Browne, C.8., Governor and Commander-in-Chief, &c, &c. &c. New Zealand.

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No. 35. THE GOVERNOR TO MAJOR-GENERAL PRATT, C.B. Government House, Auckland, 2nd October, 1860. Sir,— I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter No 297, of September 29th, in which you state that the plan of harassing the insurgents by secret, sudden, and constant attack by bodies of Troops without baggage, is, in your opinion, impracticable. I agree with you entirely in thinking that it is of " the highest importance, not only to the " successful termination of the present war, but to the future peace of the Colony, that the .Maories " should become convinced of the superiority of the Troops in warfare, and of the hopelessness of " their endeavouring to gain any material advantage over us." For this reason, I suggested a measure which has not yet been tried ; but I beg you not to suppose that I desire to interfere in any way in the conduct of Military operation?, or ilo more than offer for your own consideration a suggestion which had occurred to others as well as myself. I have, &c, T. Gore Browne. Major-General Pratt, C B , Commanding H.M. Troops, &c, &c, &c, Taranaki. '

No. 36. MAJOR-GENERAL PRATT, C.8., TO GOVERNOR GORE BROWNE, C.B. Head Quarters, New Plymouth, Taranaki, 25th Sept., 18G0. Sir,— I have the honor to report, for the information of your Excellency and the General Government, that with a view of harassing the Tribes of the South I directed a flying column, strength as per margin, under the command of Major Hutchins, 12th Regiment, to proceed to the Tataraimaka Block and to attack certain Pahs said to be erected therein, and any stockades along the road. The party proceeded on the 19th inst., and by the reports sent to me, reached Oakuru on the first day without meeting any opposition. On the 20th instant, they entered the Block and found and destroyed five Pahs with double stockades, strongly entrenched, and placed in echelon, a set of strong rifle pits and three villages; these the enemy had deserted on the approach of the Column using the tactics they now assume of vacating all Pahs in the open country which could be invested and trusting to those Pahs so situated on the edge of the bush or wilhin it, as will enable them to retire on being pressed, without the possibility of being surrounded. Major Hutchins then crossed the Kotikura river and pitched his camp about a mile beyond and it, and proceeded with a strong reconnoitering party along the road, under what he considered to be reliable information that there was a small Pah a short distance in advance. After a march of about 3 miles through a very difficult country he found three Pahs, one very strong and newly erected, were on his left in the Push and which it was impossible to surround; under these circumstances he returned to his camp, and carried out the instructions he received, which were to remain three days and clear the block of the enemy &c, driving in any cattle he could find, and returned yesterday to New Plymouth. During these operations the weather was exceedingly tempestuous and the roads nearly impracticable for heavy guns ; all the steamers put to sea and the Wonga Wonga, which left the Manukau on the 18th instant with your Despatches, only arrived in the roads this day. I am now getting all information with respect to what can be done against the Southern Tribes and Captain Seymour R.N. has been kind enough at my request, to say he will proceed to the South, with a view to obtain information relating to any landing places their may be. It is stated that in about a fortnight the weather will be more favourable, and I shall endeavour in every way to harass the enemy by continual movements of Troops, and stop the cultivation of the potatoe and other crops in the open country; and I am informed that the Taranaki and Ngatiruanui Tribes have quarrelled and that the latter have not only taken away from the former any plunder they had obtained, but have, in addition, plundered the Taranaki Tribes of any property they had of their own. By this expedition and the former one on the 10th instant, the enemy have been much harrassed and many of their fortified places destroyed. The Tribes who it is supposed were cultivating have been obliaed to leave their fields and assemble to protect their Stockades which have been burnt under their eyes without being able to inflict any loss on us; a continuation of this will, I feel sure, have more effect in bringing the war to an end than any attack on places in the bush, where, though success would attend our arms, still the loss would be severe and the enemy must after all unavoidably escape. I have, &c, T. S. Pratt. His Excellency, Major-General, Commanding. Colonel Gore Browne C.8., Governor, &c, &c, &c.

(No. 289.)

Royal Artillery— 1 captain 1 sergeant 1G rank and 6le Royal Engineers— 1 captain 1 sergeant 12 rank and file 12th Regiment— 1 field officer 1 captain 4 subalterns C sergeant* 1 drummer 150 rank and rile 65th Regiment— 2 captains 6 subalterns Iβ sergeants 4 drummer« 250 rank and file Militia— 2 captains 4 subalterns 4 sergeants 2 drummers 62 rank sod file Mounted Corps— 1 sergeant 10 rank and tile

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No. 37. MAJOR-GENERAL PRATT, C.8., TO GOVERNOR GORE BROWNE, C.B. Head Quarters, New Plymouth, Taranaki, 16th Ociober, 1860. Sir,— I have the honor to sta'.o for the information ot your Excellency, that on the morning of the 9th instant I moved out from New Plymouth with a force detailed in the Return enclosed, for the purpose of attacking three strong Pahs, named Pukelakariki, Orongomahunguai, and Mataiau, held by the rebel Maories of the Taranaki Tribe, and situated two on the right and one on the left bank of the " Kailiihi " river, about eighteen miles distant from this place. The Force reached the Tataraimaka Block the same afternoon and encamped for the night, next morning after passing through a most difficult line of country, particularly for Artillery, reached within three-quarters of a mile from the Pahs by 8 o'clock in the morning, when the camp was pitched, entrenchments thrown up, and when this was completed, two strong reconnoitering parties proceeded to examine the best iipproaches to the Pahs, that on the left was through very high fern crossed by a deep gully and found totally impracticable for Artillery ; the party was fired upon from rifle pits from the bush and the fire was returned —there were no casualties—the right party found open ground near the pahs with a space of 150 yards between the first Pah and a strong belt of bush. I had in conjunction with Colonel Mould, Commanding Royal Engineers, decided upon advancing upon these Pahs by a somewhat regular sap, and endeavour to shew to the Maories that their pahs could be taken without that loss of life to our Forces which had before occurred. To carry this into effect, a working party and guard (strength as per foot-note*) proceeded at 6 a.m. next morning and at once commenced to throw up a parallel within 250 yaids ol the second named Pah; strange to say, the enemy permitted this to be carried out and to let the Troops get somewhat under cover without firing a shot, and by 9 o'clock the guns were sent on from the Camp, and liy 12 o'clock were in position and shortly afterwards commenced a steady fire upon the Pah. The enemy seeing it was not our intention to rush up to the Pah, had commenced firing from it, arid rifle pits at 11 o'clock and kept up a continuous fire upon the working party and troops during the whole day ; the 8-inch gun, 24 pounder Howitzers, and small mortar poured iheit fire at fixed intervals during the whole day, but the Pah which was covered with green flax shewed little signs of a breach, and firing ceased at nightfall on both sides ; fresh working parties to make an advanced sap were at work during the night. At C a.m. next morning a flying sap was begun, approaching slowly to the Pah, with a mantelet; skirmishers were thrown forward, and the howitzers advanced to play upon an angle of the Pah; a bag of gunpowder had been ordered to assist in making a breach, when it was found that the enemy— apparently dismayed at this new mode of attack—had evacuated the Pah during the night, and the Troops entered it. This Pah was found of a very strong character, with rifle pits all round, covered passages, and all the usual appliances which the Maories are so capable of constructing: it was full of their provisions, (potatoes,) which were carted away and given to the Troops. Had the enemy chosen to defend thi* Pah even with our mode of approach it could not have been carried without much loss of life. Having crossed the Kaihihi river myself with Lieut.-Col. Carey, D.A.G., and examined the Pah there, I had ordered 50 men of the Goth regiment, with some friendly Natives, to proceed to the left bank of the river, and open fire upon the Pah and riflo trenches, when, by a signal agreed upon, they would know that the first named Pah was being assaulted; this they did, found that the Mutaiaio Pah had also been abandoned, entered and destroyed it: it was not as strong as the other two. The troops and artillery then advanced upon the Puketakariki Pah, standing upon an eminence, and about 300 yards from the Pah just taken; a few shells were thrown into it, to which there was no response, and the troops rushed into it and destroyed it. This Pah was also of a strong const) uction with all the usual appliances for defence and was full of potatoes. Between the first and second Pahs the enemy had placed a long line of rifle pits, evidently supposing that the Troops would at o ice have advanced up the open ground between the line of rifle pits and the belt of bush — and had this been done we should have suffered severe loss—and I have every reason to believe that the enemy were entirely bafiled by the new mode of attack. I have before mentioned that the Pahs had since they were reconnoitered been covered over with green flax (phormium tenax), rendering them quite impervious to musketry, and by its tenacity preventing even the heavy gun from making any great impression upon the Pah. Our casualties were five wounded fstate here enclosed), amongst whom I regret to say was Captain Pasley, R.E., serving on my Staff, and acting as Engineer in the Trenches, and a most valuable soldier Serjeant Howatt, R.E. All the wounded are doing well. The loss of the enemy will never be known as they always conceal it ; blood and stretchers on which people had been carried away were found, and a Chief named Luke is known to have been killed.

(No. 306.)

* Guard of the Trenches —l Captain, 3 Subalterns, 5 Sergeants, 2 Drummers.—Eank and File, 150. Working Party-~2 Captains, 2 Subalterns, 2 Sergeants, 2 Drummers.—Kank and File, 250.

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The conduct of the Troops of all arms was excellent, the Royal Navy, Regulars and Militia, vying with each other in the field and trenches. I enclose a report by Colonel Mould, lloyal Engineers, whose services throughout have heen of the most valuable description, and also a tracing of the ground which will make this Despatch more intelligible. From the tenor of your Despatches which I received on the evening of the day the Pali fell, I thought it advisable to return to town next morning, and you will he able to judge of the difficulty of the ground through which the Troops had marched during this expedition when I state that the Force which marched off at 6 o'clock, a.m., did not reach their Quarters as a whole, before 7 o'clock in the evening. I have had the pleasing duty of bringing to the notice of His lloyal Highness the Commander-in-Chief, the excellent couduct of the Troops, as also that of the Officers in command of the various branches of the service, Naval Brigade, Regular Troops, and Militia, and of the general and personal Staff. T. S. Pratt, His Excellency Major General Commanding. Colonel Thomas Gore Browne, C.8., Governor.

MARCHING STATE OF FIELD FORCE, NEW PLYMOUTH, NEW ZEALAND, OCTOBER 9th, 1860.

R. Cahf.y, Licut.-Colonc], Deputy Adjutant General.

RETURN of OFFICERS and MEN WOUNDED in Action at the Kahihi River, Taranaki, New Zealand, on the 11th October, 1860.

R. Cabet, Lient.-Colonel, Deputy Adjutant General.

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Corps. ° I 3 (A 1 i 1 s q I Remarks. I General Staff - Commissariat - Medical - - - - Royal Artillery Iloyal Engineers First Battalion, 12th Rcgt. 40th Regiment - - - 65th l)o. - Naval Brigade - - - Militia - - - - Mounted CorpsCorps of Armourers - 7)o. Musketry - ..! : .: 1 i ] 2 3 1 6 ... ! ... 1 1 1 3 2 1 i 4 5 7 2 5 1 2 6 12 20 1 4 85 30 150 200 300 26 76 14 In addition to this, the Force was accompanied by 150 Natives of the friendly Tribes, under Mr. l'arris, Assistant Native Secretary. 1 2 1 1 4 2 2 2 1 I 5 Total 12 25 11 50 13 837

WOT il.ll. Remarks. Corps. Captain, j Serjeant. Drummer. Privates. Royal Engineers 1 1 First Battalion 12th Regiment - Oath Regiment - Militia . 1 1 1 Total 1 1 1

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NOMINAL RETURN of Officers and Men wounded in action at the Kahihi River, Taranaki, New Zealand, on the 11th October, 1860.

R. Caret, Lieut.-Colonel, Deputy Adjutant General.

Enclosure in No. 37. COL. MOULD, E.E., TO DEPUTY ADJUTANT GENERAL. Royal Engineer Office, New Plymouth, October 15th, 1860. Sir,— I have the honor to submit for the information of the Major-General Commanding, the following report accompanied by a sketch of the Engineer operations cairied out for the attack on the Pahs on the North (right) bank of the river Kaihihi. On the afternoon of the 10th instant after the arrival of the Field force at the selected site of the encampment, which was in two portions, one on each side of a steep gully, entrenchments were rapidly thrown up to secure the camp from annoyance by distant firing of the enemy during the night, and shortly afterwards the reconnoissances which were made right and left of the Camp towards the enemy's position enabled me to submit a general plan of attack for the approval of the Major-General, At 6 o'clock on the morning of the 11th, a working party of 250 men, with a non-commissioned officer and 8 men of the Royal Engineers left the Engineer Depot carrying tools and gabions, and preceeded by a covering party of 150 men, who advanced in extended order with the necessary supports to the ground I had selected for opening the Trenches. Having - with the assistance of Captain Pasley, R.E., who the Major-General had obligingly placed at my disposal for duty in the trenches, traced out a line of parallel, the nearest part about 200 yards from the Orongomahangai Pah, and laid out partially under cover of a light bush, and partially on the reverse slope of a slight rise in the ground, the working party commenced the trench at about 7 a.m. and worked with such spirit that in about two hour 3 they were so well covered that I considered it advisable to send to Camp for the guns. Strange to say, but fortunately for the working parties who would otherwise have suffered some loss, the enemy did not fire a single shot until £-past 10, by which time the guna had reached the ground, and preparations were making for laying the platform for the 8-inch gun. This being completed soon after 12 o'clook and the gun mounted, fire was opened from it, from 2 24-pound howitzers find one cohorn mortar, wliich at interva's threw shot and shell with great precision with the object as well of breaching the Stockade as of searching the rifle pits, the latter it is believed being well effected by the judicious use of small charges, and good elevation in the howitzers; for the fire of the enemy except at first was feeble and caused only one slight casualty on the right of the attack—the other casualties being from the fire of a body of the enemy in the bush on the left front of the parallel. A small but scarcely practicable breach, if the Pah had been energetically defended, was effected by the projectiles from the 8-inch gun. The perfecting of the parallel so as to , give complete cover, and the construction of some traverses was carried on during the remainder of the day. At 6 o'clock p.m. the day working party was relieved by 75 men, with a detail of Royal Engineers as in the morning, the whole in charge of Captain Mould, R.E., who commenced the construction of a sap from the parallel which was continued duriug the night, the mass of the working party still further raising and improving the parapets of the trenches. At 6 o'clock a.m. on the 12th, the night working party was relieved by 150 men with the detail of Engineers as before, and were employed in rapidly pushing the sap ahead and widening it into a trench, which it was proposed to carry on with defiladed to a short distance of the Pah.

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Corps. Rank and Names. Remarks. Royal Engineers Captain Charles Pasley i Severely, (acting on the Staff of the MajorGeneral) Do. Serjeant Wm. Howatt Severely 1st Bn. 12th Regiment Private Denis Manning Slightly 65th Regiment Drummer William Groves Slightly Militia Private James Batten Slightly M. S. Grace, M.D., Staff Assistant Surgeon.

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THE NATIVE INSURRECTION.

The enemy being quiet and not having fired a shot since 11 o'clock the previous night, the Major Geneial determined to assault, and having had a howitzer moved to the front and a strong force of skirmishers consisting partly of Natives, after a shell and a charge of canister was thrown into the small breach, the assaulting party moved forward and entered the Pah which was found to be vacated and which was destroyed. As the second Pah Puketakariki was somewhat less than 300 yards from Orongomahungai, and not a shot was fired from it during the advance upon the latter—the presumption was, that it also was evacuated, as however the enemy might have been there in force, keeping quiet in hope of luring on the Troops, it was considered prudent to bring two howitzers well to the front, and after three rounds fired from each, the last being canister, the Troops entered the Pah and destroyed it. The latter Pah was of a construction similar to others which have been previously destroyed,—it was nearly square, surrounded with two rows of palisades, the outer row being covered with bundles of green flax, and having the usual rifle pits communicating under ground with each other. Orongomahungai was different; it was situated on the summit of the precipitous bank of the river Kahihi, which here makes a sharp turn, and the outer line of the Pah was traced across a sort of peninsula formed by the bank, the rear of the Pah being the bank, and consisted of the ordinary two rows of palisades covered with bundles of green flax—then the rifle pits well traversed, backed immediately fey the high earthern bank of a Pah so old that trees were growing on the summit thereof. The accompanying sketch of the ground with the positions of the Pahs and lines of trenches is not as perfect as I could have wished, and I had not sufficient time allowed me after the capture of the of the Pahs and previous to the march of the Force on its return to New Plymouth to make a sufficient survey. Looking to the small effect of the projectiles on the stockade, I am confirmed in the conclusion at which I had previously arrived, that a practicable breach cannot be formed by Artillery—nevertheless its use is essential for searching the rifle pits, and in cases similar to the Pah of Orongomahungai when there is a high bank within a stockade immediately at the back of the rifle pits, shells lodging in the bank and exploding would have the effect of mines and render the pits untenable ; the defenders would be buried in the debris. It will be observed on looking at the position of the Pahs with reference to the river, and the bush on the left, and the existence of the rifle pits on the further side of the bush from Puketakariki as shewn at A and B on the plan, and the difficult country intersected by deep swampy gullies to the rear of those pits that it would have been impracticable to have surrounded both Pahs at once with a view to enclose and capture the enemy. It is also clear that it would have been an immense risk to have surrounded " Puketakariki" thrusting a force between the two Pahs with the rifle pits at C, immediately in rear of the investing body, and as regards Orongomahungai, the precipitous bank, and the difficult character of the river, the former inaccessible, and the latter impassably to a European, though tiaversed by Natives, rendered an investment of it impossible. The defenders occupied and held for the tinie tills strong position, but eventually left it, hopeless of a successful defence, or of causing much loss to the assailants, who adopted a mode of attack to which they were unaccustomed. Similar strong positions which cannot be enclosed, and from which there are means of escape inaccessible to Troops, may possibly be held for a limited time, and be evacuated before matters come to an extremity, but Pahs in open country wilt be invariably left on the approach of a hostile force. I believe that the attack thus made on this position will have a wholesome effect. From the careful preparations made, it was evident that a determined resistance was contemplated, and yet the Natives were driven out in little more than twelve hours, and they will doubtless perceive that positions, however strong, are not proof against a systematized attack. C apture of the Pah may be in all cases calculated upon confidently, with little loss, but capture of the defenders, with the experience already gained, will never be effected. I would beg to bring to your especial notice the Officers of the Royal Engineers who served under me. 1 o Captain Pasley, who was unfortunately seriously wounded on the 11th, every credit is due for the caie and energy with which he carried out his instructions, and assisted me with his valuable advirp ; and to Captain Mould also, who, although subsequently for night duty, when he pushed forward the s;ip through difficult and encumbered ground, nevertheless took an active part in the day duty, before and after Captain Pasley was wounded, praise must be awarded. I cannot omit noticing a worthy, able and zealous Non-Commissioned Officer in the person of Serjeant Howatt, of the Royal Engineers, who on the march was constantly in advance with a d( tachment of the corps actively engaged in smoothing difficulties on the road in the way of the transport, and on the first day of the attack he volunteered his services, though not for duty during the day, aluable and energetic assistance in the.breach until most severely wounded, His conduct i s the highest praise. I must be permitted to mention, and to request the favorable notice of the Mtjor-General Commanding, to the Field Officers in the trenches, who were to a certain degree under my oiders —Lieutenant-Colonel Sillery, D.Q.M.G., and Major Hutchins, 12th Regiment, who took a most active and untiring part in the operations, both in respect of judiciously posting the guards of the trenches, and urging on the working parties. T. R. Mould, Colonel, Commanding Royal Engineers. To tb° Deputy Adjutant-General, &c, &c, &c.

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E—No. 3c

FURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO THE NATIVE INSURRECTION

No. 38. THE GOVERNOR TO MAJOR GENERAL PRATT, C.B. Government House, Auckland, Bth November, ISCO. Sib,— I would request you to be good enough to instruct those who have charge ot the wounded Maoriee to treat them with great care and kindness, as it is very desirable that they should be made to comprehend the difference between civilized and savage warfare. Prisoners who are not wounded should be guarded carefully, but not put in irons. I have, &c, Major-General Pratt, C.8., T. Gore Browne. Commanding H.M. Trodps, &c, &c, &c, TaranakL

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