FURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY OF MR. McLEAN ON THE EAST COAST.

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1869 Session I, A-04a

A.—No. 4a

FURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY OF MR. McLEAN ON THE EAST COAST.

Return to an Order oftlie House of Representatives, ofQtli June, 1869. Ordered, —" That the whole Correspondence relating to Mr. McLean's Agency upon the East Coast be printed, and laid upon the table of this House."

(Mr. Ormond.)

WELLINGTON.

1869.

A.—No. 4a

No. 1. Copy of a Letter from the Hon. Colonel Haultain to Major Biggs. (No. 533-3.) Colonial Defence Office, Sir, Wellington. 7th September, 1868. I have been informed by Lieut.-Colonel AVhitmore that, with his concurrence, you have not called out for Actual Service the Militia of Poverty Bay (as you were directed to do in my letter No. 476 of the sth ult.) because you considered that the state of affairs in the District was not such as to justify an expenditure of public money, in which I quite concur ; but I have now to direct you to issue the Notice that was forwarded to you, and to call upon the Ist and 2nd Class Militiamen to attend for the purpose of being completed with arms and accoutrements. You are to form them into a Company, and direct them to parade once in every three months for the inspection of their arms, &cThis they are required to do without pay, as is the rule in all those parts of the Colony where arms are placed in the hands of the Settlers for their own defence, and you are to fix such times and places for these musters as will least inconvenience the parties concerned. You should at the same time inform them that having been called out for Actual Service, they are liable to be placed on duty at any time that they may be required, when of course they will be entitled to the usual Militia pay and allowances. You may appoint to do duty with the Company any person in the District who holds a Militia Commission, and if necessary, recommend the names of any other eligible gentlemen who are willing to serve as Officers. I have, &c, T. M. Haultain. Major Biggs, Commanding Militia District, Poverty Bay.

No. 2. Copy of a Letter from Major Biggs to the Under Secretary, Colonial Defence. g IE Poverty Bay, Ist September, 1868. I have the honor to inform you that in accordance with instructions received from Lieut.Colonel AVhitmore, the Militia of the Poverty Bay District have been called out for training and exercise. The number of men enrolled are —forty of the Ist Class, thirteen of the 2nd Class, and seventeen of the 3rd Class, —making a total of seventy men. The Poverty Bay Volunteers are thirtytwo strong. AVith a case of rifles Lieut.-Colonel AVhitmore left, numbering twenty-five, and nine which were in charge, I have been able to arm only thirty-four of the Militiamen with rifles. Until more come I have lent as many breech-loading carbines as I have, so that as few as possible shall be without arms of some sort. I have therefore to request that I may be supplied with rifles as soon as possible. The number of Government arms amongst the Natives of the Bay is seventy-seven ; in this number Hirini Te Kani's men are not included, as his men are scattered along the Coast from TuraDganui to Tolaga Bay. The Natives are very anxious to obtain more arms, but I fear if given them they will prove but lukewarm friends. I do not apprehend that they will turn against us, but they have not the heart to fight against their relatives. Hotene, a Ngatiporou chief, told Colonel AVhitmore that he would not come here again to assist against an enemy, so that little support can be looked for from that quarter. Morgan would send some thirty men if they are paid. Henare Potae has also about the same number of good men, but before any of these people could arrive great damage might be done by an enemy as strong as the party collecting around the ex-prisoners. Considering how scattered the population is, the doubtful assistance we can expect from the Natives of the district, and the length of time it would take to obtain assistance from the coast, together with the close proximity of the enemy, I think it really necessary for the protection of the people and property of Turanga, that a force should be located in the district. Such a measure would give confidence to the loyal, and hinder the doubtful Natives from turning over to the enemy. Tho ex-prisoners are only four days' march from Turanga ; they have already been joined by some of the Wairoa natives, and will, I doubt not, get much support from the Ureweras. A message has already arrived here, asking the Natives of this place to get what arms they can frcta the Government, to remain outwardly loyal, and to join tho enemy with a hundred men when they come down in the summer; evidently shewing that it is their intention to attack this place as soon as fine weather sets in and provisions are plentiful.

FURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY OF MR. McLEAN ON THE EAST COAST.

A.—No. 4a

4

FURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY

545 3 14.9.68.

I have also to inform you that the population (European) is decreasing rapidly ; thirty persons left in the last vessel for Auckland, and many more are waiting for the first opportunity to follow. Lieut.-Colonel AVhitmore informed me that he had recommended two gentlemen for Captains' commissions in the Poverty Bay Militia, and left the two subalterns for me to name. I would, therefore, beg to recommend George Nevill Dodd, and Fredk. Wm. Gascoigne, Esqs., as the two Lieutenants in the Poverty Bay Militia. I have, &c, Reginald Newton Biggs, The Under-Secretary, Defence Office, AVellington. Major Commanding Colonial Forces.

No. 3. Copy of a Letter from Major Biggs to the Under Secretary, Colonial Defence. Sir,— Te AVairoa, 7th September, 186 S. I have the honor to inform you that owing to the ex-prisoners having erected a pa near to the scene of the last engagement, I considered it necessary to keep some scouts constantly on the look out to give warning of any movement made by them in the direction of Poverty Bay. I therefore before leaving the district (which I was compelled to do to attend the sitting of the Native Land Court at this place), left instructions with Capt. AVestrup to employ six men, three Maoris and three Europeans, to scout the country along the two roads to the enemy's quarters, taking with them three to four days' provisions. They have been promised pay for this service, but the rate per day has not been fixed, as I preferred leaving that to the Hon. Defence Minister. The men will provide themselves with horses, &c. I have to request you to inform me, in the event of the Defence Minister approving of the precautionary measure which I have taken, the rate per diem the men are to receive. I have, &c., Reginald Newton Biggs, The Under Secretary, Colonial Defence, Wellington. Major Commanding Colonial Forces.

No. 4. Copy of Letter from Chief Clerk, Defence, to Major Biggs. (No. 545-3.) Colonial Defence Office. Sir,— AVellington, 14th September, 1868. By direction of the Hon. Dr. Pollen, in the absence of the Defence Minister, I have the honor to acknowledge your letters of the Ist and 7th instant, addressed to the Under Secretary, Defence Office, and to inform you that orders have been sent to Napier by telegraph authorizing an increase to the strength of the Constabulary, and that any arms you may require for arming Europeans only, you can obtain from the Militia Store at Napier on application to Capt. Withers, to whom a considerable supply of arms and accoutrements has already been forwarded, and to whom more will be sent by the first opportunity. With reference to your letter of the 7th instant, you are at liberty to continue to to retain the services of the scouts you have already employed so long as you may consider it necessary, the pay being at the same rate as that of the Constabulary, and I have been instructed to inform you that the Government having approved of the recommendation of Col. AVhitmore, —that Mr. Gascoigne should organize a scouting party for the roads at AVhenuakura, of not more than twelve men, Natives or others, I am to request you to have the goodness to issue without delay the necessary orders to that officer, that no time may be lost in giving effect to Col. Whitmore's recommendation ; the men already employed by you might form part of Mr. Gascoigne's scouts. I have, &c, F. Stevens, Major Biggs, Commanding Militia District, Poverty Bay. Chief Clerk. P.S. —Capt. Saunders, at AVairoa, is to be authorized to employ twenty Volunteers for actual service on the usual rates of pay. F. Stevens.

No. 5. Copy of a Letter from Major Biggs to the Chief Clerk, Defence Office. Sir,— Poverty Bay, sth October, 1868. I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of your letter, number and date as per margin, and to inform you that Mr Gascoigne started on Saturday last, the 3rd inst., with five scouts, all Maoris. As yet he has been unable to obtain the services of any Europeans. The European scouts whom I employed before preferring to go shearing, and as they were only engaged for three weeks, I could not compel them to serve. There are some half a dozen good men living along the coast between here and Waiapu whom I hope to obtain. I have also to inform you that the arms required for the Militiamen of the Poverty Bay District have been received by me. I have, Ac, Reginald Newton Biggs, The Chief Clerk, Defence Office, AVellington. Major Commanding Local Forces.

No. 6. Memorandum by Mr. McLean. The present unsettled state of the North Island, and the feeling of insecurity that prevails at Hawke's Bay and the East Coast, induce me, before returning to Napier, to offer every assistance in my power to the Government, should it desire that I should act for and represent it in that part of the Island.

OF MR. McLEAN ON THE EAST COAST.

No. 4a.

5

I make this offer apart from any political consideration, conceiving it to be the duty of every colonist to assist at a time like the present, also from a desire to avert war if possible, and to induce co-operation on the part of the friendly natives. The interests at stake are so great, that in undertaking to act for the Government, I feel it my duty to state that I should expect to have such co-operation and support as the circumstances required, with authority to initiate and carry out negotiations with the natives, and to control the actions of all officers, military or otherwise, that might have the effect of disturbing the peace of the district. Wellington, 10th October, 1868. Donald McLean.

No. 7. Memorandum by Mr. Richmond. In reference to Mr. McLean's Memorandum of the 10th October, the Government are willing to accept the offer therein made of assistance in settling the differences which exist with the Natives of the Northern part of Hawke's Bay and the East Coast. They will authorise Mr. McLean to make such arrangements as may be necessary to secure the alliance of the tribes hitherto loyal, and to satisfy the hostile and those inclined to hostility, that so long as they remain quiet no action will be taken against them. The Government will give every facility at their command for carrying out such negotiations, and will treat with much attention all Mr. McLean's recommendations as to the location and movements of the Colonial Forces within the District. They hope very shortly to place a small trained force in the District as a nucleus for defensive organisation. The Telegraph will generally facilitate prompt communication with head-quarters, but. failing that means, they will support Mr. McLean in any action necessitated by an emergency. Ministerial authorisation must in every case be obtained before any engagement for the payment of money is entered into. It is intended that the steamer " Sturt" should be despatched in a few days to visit the settlements on the East Coast, passing on to Auckland, and returning without delay by the same route. The earliest possible notice will be given of her readiness, and she will be for a time at Mr. McLean's command. AVellington, 12th October, 1868. J. C. Richmond.

No. 8. Copy of a Letter from Mr. J. D. Osmond to the Hon. Colonel Haultain. Sir,— Napier, 23rd October, 1868. The " Ahuriri" leaving for AVellington, affords me the opportunity of sending you more detailed information as to the position of affairs at Wairoa than the telegraph has permitted. Mr. McLean and Mr. Richmond, I presume, sent you full accounts up to the time of their leaving. I will therefore commence from then. At the time they were embarking for Wairoa, despatches arrived from Mr. Deighton and Capt. Tuke, dated the day before, i.e., October 18, 1868. Copies of these despatches I now enclose. These despatches Mr. Richmond saw. From their contents you will gather that both Mr. Deighton and Capt. Tuke led us to believe that the enemy was within three miles of the town of AVairoa, at a place called Scamperdown Creek, and that an attack upon the settlement was expected. Former letters from Mr. Deighton and Capt. Tuke (copies of which were sent to Mr. Richmond by a former opportunity) had led us to expect this result. The arrangements that had been made by Mr. McLean prior to Mr Richmond's arrival, to meet the difficulties in which the AVairoa settlement was reported to be, were as follow : —A contingent of friendly Natives from here was asked to go to the support of AVairoa —this they agreed to do. and about 100 or 120 men accordingly went. The " Star of the South" was chartered at £40 a day to take supplies, ammunition, and the Hawke's Bay Natives to AA rairoa, and she was then to have gone on to the East Coast to bring down such assistance from the Ngatiporou Tribe as Mr. McLean could obtain. These arrangements were all approved by Mr. Richmond upon his arrival here, the only difference being that the " St. Kilda" took the place of the " Star of the South" so far as transporting the Ngatiporou was concerned. The " St. Kilda" was unable to land Messrs. Richmond and McLean at Wairoa, they consequently went on to the East Coast for the Ngatiporous with no further information than they had before leaving Napier. Mr. McLean expected to obtain the services of from 200 to 30C men from the Ngatiporou Tribe, and I consider that the " St. Kilda" will in all probability be back at the AVairoa to-morrow, and may be here (if the weather at Wairoa is suitable for communication) by Sunday afternoon. The plans which I have just detailed will place at Wairoa, upon the arrival of the Ngatiporou, the following force according to my estimate: — Ngatiporou ... ... ... ... 250* Ihaka Whanga ... ... ... ... 80* Paora Rerepu (from Mohaka) ... ... ... 40* Hawke's Bay Natives ... ... ... ... 120* Wairoa Friendlies ... ... ... ... 150 AVairoa Militia and Volunteers ... ... ... 100 Armed Constabulary ... ... ... ... 40* Total ... 780 Those marked * are all on pay. 2

ETJRTTIER PAPERS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY

A.—No. 4a,

6

Had the enemy been in the position he was reported to be —close to the Wairoa Settlement— this force ought, especially had it been joined by a small body of trained men, to have been able to have crushed him at one blow, and that was the main consideration which influenced us in massing the force I have described. The position of things, however, we now find is very different from what the report of Mr. Deighton and Captain Tuke led us to expect. The " Star of the South" after landing the forces and supplies she took up, returned here yesterday afternoon, and I regret to say that she brought no report of any kind from either Mr. Deighton or Captain Tuke. lam quite unable to explain this, and after you haye read their letters of the 18th October you will probably feel as much surprised as myself that these officers did not send frequent and full reports of the state of their district. Their neglect in not writing by the steamer I can neither understand nor explain. The only letter of any kind which came here from Wairoa by the " Star" was a short note written by Captain St. George to myself, a copy of which I enclose, and which contains the only informatiou that we have received from Wairoa since the 18th October. From that letter you will gather that the reports of Mr. Deighton and Captain Tuke exaggerated the immediate danger —that there is no reliable information at Wairoa as to the position of the enemy, and that the part of the enemy which came close to AVairoa was only a scouting party and not their main body. I have endeavoured to put together the information I have open to me, and the opinion I arrive at is, —That the ex-prisoners waited at Puketapu until they received the countenance of the Urewera and AVaikatos, which was given we learn at the meeting lately held at Te Ahikereru ; that they then moved on the AVairoa District, and that they now hold what is known as the Upper AVairoa and the confiscated or ceded land there. That they have plenty of food both in the shape of stored food and potatoes now in the ground, the property of the Friendlies who have retreated to AVairoa, and that they are in a country difficult of approach with retreat open to them to their old position at Ruaki Ture. That their murdering Karaitiana and his scouts show they intend mischief —but that they are delaying their movements with the hope of winning over more of the AVairoa Natives. I do not think they will succeed in this—there is no doubt that the AVairoa and Poverty Bay Natives were most unreliable a week or two since, but the demonstration of force we are making is having the very best effect, and now that they see Te Kooti is not likely to be the strongest side after all, they will probably keep with us. The main point to consider now is what course is best to pursue, and considering the very meagre information we have, I would recommend that no decision should be come to until you have the report of Messrs. Richmond and McLean, which will I trust be in your hands by the wires on Sunday evening next. I enclose a tracing of tho AVairoa A 7alley, Ac., which will enable you to understand the position the enemy are believed to be in, better than I could in writing describe it. AVhatoroa, where the main body is believed to be, is above Maru Maru, but not very far ; it is there that the main supply of potatoes is. Since writing the foregoing an orderly has arrived from AVairoa with a further report from Captain Tuke which I enclose —from it you will gather that the conclusions I have drawn are borne out by what is reported by Captain Tuke. I have, &c, J. D. Okmond. P.S. —Captain Tuke's report mentioned in last paragraph, not time to copy, but one sent by Major Lambert in his to you of this day's date. Edward L. Green, For J. D. Ormond.

Enclosure 1 in No. 8. Copy of a Letter from Mr. S. Deighton to the General Government Agent. Resident Magistrate's Office, Sis,— AVairoa, 18th October, 1868. I beg to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 15th instant, and of course you have by this time heard of the news of Karaitiana's death being authentic. I note your remark about conciliating the friendly natives. lam happy to say that no ill-feeling exists at present, and my utmost endeavours, in combination with those of Capt. Tuke, will be exerted towards furthering your views in this matter. Ihaka is here, and has sent for his people, who I trust will arrive to-day. Paora Rercpu has behaved as he always does. He has about thirty men doing good duty. I have, of course, supplied them with rations. I now beg to lay before you the actual condition up to the present date. AYe have, on our side, (Town) about forty Europeans, new men, under Captain Tuke, who can be partially relied upon. About 20 Volunteers under Lieut. Finlayson, and say 40 Militia under my charge, perfectly untrained, and, only that they count as forty men, are in reality of very little service, being, as I said, perfectly untrained. We have a small stockade, badly situated, but strong in itself as a place of refuge, but not commanding the township. AYe! have a large quantity of women and children, and are running short of provisions, as well'as arms and ammunition. The friendly natives are posted at Ruataniwha, Te Waihirere, Te AVhi and Matiti, and are likely to stay there in preference to coming over here. Capt. Tuke and I are trying to get 100 if possible to garrison the town in conjunction with the Europeans, and now that Ihaka has received your letter it is possible we shall be able to do so. The enemy is at present in large force at or about Scamperdown Creek. A native from Te AVh: (Renata) was out yesterday scouting, and came across Himiona and a few Hauhaus. Himiona informed him that the intentions of the rebels were as follows : —Te Kooti, Te Waru, and the Ureweras are to assemble all their forces at Scamperdown Creek. Te AVaru being at Te AVarau at the present time —they are then to advance in the direction of Te AVaihirere and to make overtures to Paora Te Apatu to stand on one side—to leave the road clear for them and the Europeans. In the event of his agreeing, hostilities are to commence at once; if he refuses, they attack him first at AVaihirere, and

OF MR. McLEAN ON THE EAST COAST.

7

A.—No. 4a

then the Europeans. The same overtures have been made to Hamana and refused up to the present time. lam inclined to think Hamana will be staunch; if so, we cau hold our own till we get reinforcements. I need not tell you that our position at the present time is very precarious, from the fact of having so few trained Europeans, and being hampered with women and children —and with every probability of the enemy making a diversion under Te AVaru, attacking us in rear. I shall however do my best to retain as many natives as I can on this side of tho river, and, as the present redoubt is very small, Captain Tuke will most likely throw up a temporary entrenchment round the Court House — that is, of course, if we are not attacked by the enemy in the mean time, which, I am sorry to say, we hourly expect. As Capt. Tuke was unable to hold Te Kupu, I presume by this time the rebels have taken possession of that post. I have, &c, The General Government Agent, Napier. S. Deighton.

Enclosure 2 in No. 8. Copy of a Letter from Sub-Inspector A. Tuke to the General Government Agent. Sir,— Clyde, Te AVairoa, 18th October, 1868. I had the honor to forward a despatch yesterday stating that I considered the place in imminent danger, and that I had considered it necessary to order the Military Settlement to be at once abandoned. The Block House has accordingly been evacuated, and all outsettlers are collected in Clyde. I had no possible means of defence for both places, and the enemy in very large force crossed tho river at Maru Maru, just above the Block House in the heart of the settlement. They are now on this side of the Scamperdown Creek, on a hill, AVaingongoro, threatening the right bank of the River, while a large party of the Urewera, &c, under Te Waru, threaten the Township. Their exact whereabouts is not known, but they are collected for the purpose at AVaikaritaheke, and are now somewhere close in the hills. Another party, we are informed, have canoes ready to come down. Their plan is clearly to attack on both sides of the River simultaneously. They have sent to the resident Friendlies to make the way clear for them to fight the Pakeha, and we nightly expect an attack. My force is very indifferent, only a few good men. I have called out every man, and am using every means to complete defensive works. I believe we shall be assisted to a degree by the Friendlies, but can at present get none over here, as they are alarmed for their own safety, and I fear sometimes will do little more than fight their own pas —Matete, Ruataniwha, AVaihirere, and the Ngatikurupakiaka, the latter I feel inclined to trust, but shall be most cautious in giving them ammunition. Karaitiana's death has had a good effect in increasing their anger with the Hauhaus, if not their love for us. I believe I shall be justified in paying scouts for our own use at the same rate as Europeans —it would be most impolitic to do otherwise at present. Being so hampered with women and children, I cannot but feel most anxious to receive reinforcements of disciplined men. Militia here almost worthless, barely under command, unofficered, untrained —not the material to use either for defence or otherwise. If a steamer with gun could be spared, it would be most useful in case of the worst. I trust I shall not be supposed to put things in a worse attitude than they really are. I have, with the kind assistance of Mr. Deighton, Mr. Preece, and others, thoroughly sifted all information, and have no doubt whatever of the entire truth of all I report. Mr. Deighton will be able to furnish all native information, and, I must add, has been of every assistance, as also Mr. Preece, who I beg strongly to recommend for a Commission in the Militia. I will communicate as often as possible, and, situated as we are, must hold our own till reinforcements arrive. Since writing the above, I have had tho honor to receive the Despatches from Napier, but have no more to communicate at present. I have, &c, Arthur Tuke, The General Government Agent, Napier. Inspector, Commanding District. I shall endeavour to get Natives over hero, but am doubtful about it —they prefer their own pas.

Enclosure 3 in No. 8. Copy of a Letter from J. C. St. George to J. D. Ormond, Esq. Dear Sir,— Te Wairoa, 21st October, 1868. We could not land at Te AVairoa, so ran on to AVangawehe ; anchored there at 10 yesterday or 12 noon. I started overland, and arrived here at 5 p.m. All quiet. Our Native scouts have exaggerated very much as to the vicinity of the enemy. There is no doubt that parties of their scouts have been within a few miles of Clyde, but the main body were certainly never nearer than Maru Maru (12 or 14 miles from Clyde), if so near, Captain Tuke yesterday sent out a party of Pakehas under Saunders; they were accompanied by Ihaka AVhanga and 100 Natives. They went within five miles of Maru Maru, but sent scouts as far as that place. They saw nothing of the enemy. Ihaka tells me that the main body are probably either at Whataroa or Puketapu. lam inclined to think that they are at the former place, as there are plenty of potatoes there, and none at Puketapu. If Mr. McLean had come here to-day, I should have proposed my going with a small force of Pakehas and Natives, taking a week's provisions, and finding out where the beggars are ; at present, no ono knows for certain. As Mr. McLean will have written you, the Ngatikahuugunu are marching from Mahia. I expect they will be here this evening.

A.—No. 4a,

8

FURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY

The Friendlies here have concentrated at Ruataniwha, Alatiti, Paul, and the Ngatikurupakiaka, which pas they are fortifying, and have been working at them night and day for the last week. As you know, I had intended to return to Napier by the first boat, but there being such a lack of officers, I think it better to stay, at any rate until Air. AlcLean and Mr. Richmond return in the "St. Kilda," which I suppose will be iv three days at farthest. This is written in a great hurry, but I hope that you will make something out of it. At any rate it will ease your mind. Yours, &c, J. D. Ormond, Esq., Napier. John C. St. George.

Enclosure 4 in No. 8. Copy of a Letter from Sub-Inspector A. Tuke to the General Government Agent. Sis,— Wairoa, 22nd October, 1868. I have the honor to state that a great change for the better has taken place here. In my last despatch but one I stated that the friendly scouts reported the enemy close upon us, on a hill called AVaingongoro, on this side of the Scamperdown Creek, and that one of them (Himiona) had actually with some of his people caught one of our Natives, and sent him back unhurt with overtures from them, viz.—to make the way clear for the fight with the Pakeha ; to remain neutral or join them ; also stating they were in large force with Te Kooti close by. While perfectly true that Himiona had taken the man (not 1£ mile away), and had through him communicated with the Friendlies to the above effect, the " large force " could only have been a support, and the scouts have grossly exaggerated the proximity of the enemy. I, under the circumstances, had no other course to pursue—all the evidence agreed—-a prisoner had been taken at Maru Maru, just above the settlement—their fires were constantly seen, and, with the exception of not absolutely seeing the enemy myself, there was nothing to contradict tho report of their advance. Our friendly Natives were in the greatest state of alarm, sending everywhere for help, and numerous messengers to warn me of the danger. In one case, the whole of their women and children were removed to the opposite side of the river for safety, while they slept in the scrub, their pa being unfinished. They evacuated several of their old and favourite pas for stronger positions, which they worked at night and day, and, in fact, everything tended to confirm the story of the scouts. I fully expected a double attack, and having so very weak and inefficient a force here at present, deemed it advisable to send for immediate reinforcements, and concentrate my force for the protection of Clyde and the numerous women and children. I was upheld in this course by all our principal chiefs and European residents whose opinion was worth having, and although with our large Native reinforcements we are safe from immediate attack, which is still meditated (confirmed this morning), the enemy being in large force in our vicinity, probably AVhataroa, I consider it most desirable to garrison this place, and the block house at Pakowhai, until Te Kooti is either driven out of the district or taken, as no security will be felt till then. Ihaka AVhanga and his men are all here, and the Mohaka Natives, none of whom I sent for, but the former chief being here, and considering the place in danger, sent of his own accord for his men. I most deeply regret that so much alarm has been felt, but how it could have been otherwise under existing circumstances it is difficult to say, and I am still of opinion that had the Friendlies wavered at all or Government been less prompt, we should have had an attack either here or at Pakowai. A plentiful supply of stores has arrived, but His Honor Mr. McLean having proceeded to AVaiapu we had no communication with him. I have, &c, Arthur Tuke, General Government Agent, Napier. Sub-Inspector, A.C., Commanding District.

No. 9. Copy of a Letter from Mr. Haughton to Mr. J. D. Ormond. (No. 613-3.) Colonial Defence Office, Sir,— AVellington, 27th October, 1869. I have the honor, by the direction of the Defence Minister, to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 23rd instant, and to express to you his thanks for the very ample information you have been good enough to supply. The Government consider that the letters received from Wairoa fully justify the alarm which was felt for the safety of the district, and they trust that the measures which have been adopted will, by preventing the possibility of an attack, and by tending to check effectively the demonstration of any hostile intention on the part of the Hauhaus, restore confidence to the settlers. I am further directed to inform you that as Mr. Richmond will be at Napier very shortly, it is not the intention of the Government to give any further directions with regard to the conduct of affairs, until he has been communicated with. I have, Ac, Ch. E. Haughton, J. D. Ormond, Esq., Napier. Acting Under Secretary.

No. 10. Copy of a Letter from His Honor D. McLean to Major Lambert. Sir,— Napier, 10 th November, 1868. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 7th instant, reporting that the Native expedition had returned to Clyde, and no enemy appearing, that you had, as directed by the Honorable Mr. Richmond, embarked the Napier Natives on board the " St. Kilda " for this place.

OE MR. McLEAN ON THE EAST COAST.

9

A.—No. 4a,

7th November 12th „ 13th „

I apprehend that Mr. Richmond's instructions must have been misunderstood by you, as it was not contemplated by that gentleman that the expedition should be broken up without even ascertaining the position of the enemy, and with such a force available it appears to me that this ought certainly to have been done, and the Native chiefs Tareha, Renata, and Henare, report that they and the Ngatiporous were willing to do so. The Natives arrived here on Saturday night, and I am glad to hear that you think so highly of the chiefs Tareha and Renata, and of their officers and men. The Defence Minister has furnished me with copy of instructions sent to you per " St. Kilda," to proceed to the Reinga with the Ngatiporous, as you proposed. The forces employed at the Wairoa should be cautioned against any wanton destruction of native property at tho Reinga, but should it be deemed necessary to secure the canoes, those might be kept in safe custody by the friendly chiefs. I have, &c, Major Lambert, Commanding Forces, AVairoa. Donald McLean.

No. 11. Copy of a Letter from Major Lambert to His Honor D. McLean. Sis, — Te Wairoa, Hawke's Bay, 13th November, 1868. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of a letter from you, dated the lOth instant. The remarks you make therein are very unpleasant to me, and as I received my instructions from the Honorable Mr. Richmond, I am, therefore, responsible to the Government only for what I have done or left undone. I have forwarded a copy of your letter, with one from myself, to the Native Minister. I have, &c, Chas. Lambeet, His Honor D. McLean, Esq., Napier. Major Commanding Wairoa District.

No. 12. Copy of Letter from His Honor D. McLean to the Hon. J. C. Richmond. Sis, — Napier, 14th November, 1868. I have the honor herewith to forward copies of correspondence with Major Lambert, dated as per margin. I should like to know if I have correctly interpreted your instructions to this officer. I have, &c, The Hon. J. C. Richmond, AVellington. Donald McLean.

Enclosure 1 in No. 12. Copy of a Letter from Major Lambeet to His Honor D. McLean. Sis, — Camp AVairoa, 7th November, 1868. I have the honor to report that the Native expedition having returned to Clyde, and no enemy appearing, I have, as directed by the Hon. Mr. Richmond, embarked the Napier Natives this day on board the " St. Kilda," for a passage to Napier. I cannot speak too highly of the behaviour of the chiefs Tareha and Renata and their officers and men, who, I know, are greatly disappointed at not having met the enemy, and feel assured that the Government and yourself think highly of the noble way they came forward to the assistance of the Government at a time of great alarm. I have, &c, C. Lambert, His Honor D. McLean, Esq., Napier. Major Commanding, Wairoa.

Enclosure 2 in No. 12. Copy of a Letter from His Honor D. McLean to Major Lambert. Sib,— Napier, 12th November, 1868. I have the honor to acquaint you that steps have been taken for the defence of Poverty Bay. I send the " St. Kilda " to the Wairoa in case anything may have occurred which you may wish to communicate. I enclose the copy of a letter from Mr. Gascoigne by which you will perceive that the women and children have been removed to Auckland and Napier. Mr. Gascoigne considers that he can hold his position with the present force at Poverty Bay; he is, however, being temporarily reinforced by 60 Natives from here, and I will communicate with you if it is deemed advisable by the Government to move any portion of the AVairoa force, to co-operate with that which is now being sent from here. In the meantime I wish to discourage the removal of any of the Ngatiporou tribe. I have, &c, Major Lambert, &c, Wairoa. D. McLean. 3

A.—No. 4a,

10

FURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY

Enclosure 3 in No. 12. Copy of a Letter from Major Lambert to His Honor D. McLean. Sib,— Te Wairoa, Hawke's Bay, 13th November, 1868. I am in receipt of your letters of yesterday's date impressing upon me the necessity of keeping a vigilant watch on the movements of the enemy, and have the honor to acquaint you that I have taken such steps as are in my power for the safety of this post. I have no idea where the enemy is stationed, as I have no intelligence as to his whereabouts ; nothing has been seen of him near Wairoa. AVith reference to the Ngatiporous, since the sad news from Poverty Bay, they have been very unsettled, expressing a wish to return home, and on my applying to them to accompany me to the Reinga they inform me that you had, in a letter to them, requested them to remain at Wairoa. This morning they appeared more settled, and intend to remain. Colonel Haultain in a letter to mo wishes me to invite a contingent of the Ngatiporous to proceed to the West Coast. I need not tell you that in my opinion nothing would induce them to proceed there, even if they could be spared from this, which at this time they cannot. I have to acquaint you that upon receiving information of the sad event at Poverty Bay, and that Captain Westrup was proceeding by the coast line to Mahia, I despatched Mr. Preece to the chief Ihaka to request him to advance to meet the fugitives, and so soon as I could procure carriage, I sent provisions for the chief and the party under Captain AVestrup. I have heard from Mr. Preece of the arrival of the party at Mahia. The chief Ihaka intended to proceed to Poverty Bay; I sent a letter requesting him not to go, but to see me, and expect him in hourly. The force here can hold this place against any force likely to attack us. 1 have made known that the " St. Kilda" will take away any of the women and children who may wish to proceed to Napier. I have, &c, C. Lambeet, Donald M'Lean, Esq., Napier. Major, Commanding Wairoa District.

No. 13. Copy of a Letter from Hon. J. C. Richmond to Lieut.-Colonel Lambert, Commanding at Wairoa. (No. 633-3.) Colonial Defence Office, Sir, — Wellington, 14th November, 1868. The Government have been unceasingly engaged since news of the Tauranga massacre in considering the means for chastising the enemy ; but upon the estimates furnished them of his probable force, and on a calculation of the means at this hour available for active operations on the East Coast, they deem it to be advisable to defer for a short time any forward movement, until a success on the West Coast shall relieve a portion of the force there, or until the levies now in progress shall be sufficient and sufficiently trained to justify and enable action on an effective scale. With so large a force as is now under arms they trust the delay may be very short. In the meantime, the Government trust to your exertions to bring the forces under your command into the best possible discipline. It is essential that they should be kept in active employment on fatigue duty, improving the strength of the post, or in training, rifle shooting and exercise in the country around, so that the morale of the men may not suffer should inaction be prolonged beyond the expectations that are at present entertained. The present redoubt or such other positions as you may judge preferable must be made practically impregnable for a small garrison of say fifty men, any buildings within or attached to it being made ball-proof by the use of split timber or earthwork, and carefully protected against fire applied from outside. Stores of food, ammunition, and medical sundries to be taken and kept up within the posts, and wells made, or if that be not practicable, in any case a tank for water to be set up and kept full. You will report by the first and every opportunity as to the probable positions, numbers, and tribal composition of the enemy's force, also as to the numbers and composition of the force on pay under you. The Government will be obliged by your suggestions as to the proper points and mode of attack, and whether to be made immediately or deferred, and the force of all kinds which in your opinion would be requisite for active operations. You are not however to consider yourself prohibited by these instructions from taking advantage of any obvious opportunity furnished by the enemy, but in any such action the circumspection necessary in all, and especially in an irregular warfare with savages must be increased by the knowledge that any reverse is likely to be widely mischievous in its effect on the temper of hesitating or even friendly disposed tribes. I have, &c, Lieut.-Colonel Lambert, J. C. Richmond. Commanding Military District, Wairoa.

No. 14. Copy of a Letter from Hon. J. C. Richmond to Captain Westeup, Commanding Colonial Forces, Poverty Bay. (No. 634-3). Same tenor and date as letter 633-3 to Lieut.-Colonel Lambert, AVairoa.

OE MR. McLEAN ON THE EAST COAST.

11

A.—No. 4a.

No. 15. Copy of a Letter from His Honor D. McLean to the Hon. J. C. Richmond. Sis, Napier, 18th November, 1868. The several telegrams daily forwarded by me will have already advised the Government of leading events on this Coast, and of the steps which have been taken for the public safety. The latest reports from Poverty Bay are up to the 15th instant. I enclose a letter of that date from Captain AVestrup, which corroborates the melancholy intelligence already received, that 34 Europeans and 15 Maoris are known to have been killed by Te Kooti and his followers. Some of the incidents connected with this tragedy are too painful to relate, and I shall therefore for the present abstain from doing so. The steps that have been taken since this catastrophe may be briefly summed up as follows : — A reinforcement of 70 Natives of Karaitiana's tribe, with Captains AVestrup and Tuke, were immediately despatched for the relief of Poverty Bay by the " Ahuriri," which afterwards proceeded with letters to all the most important Chiefs of the East Coast to warn them of what had occurred, and to prepare them in case their services should be required. J. H. Campbell, Esq., late Resident Magistrate, was instructed to proceed to Waiapu to confer with the Chiefs Mokena and others, and keep the Government advised of occurrences in that part of the Island. A copy of his instructions are herewith enclosed. Ihaka Whanga and about 70 of his men were, with 20 refugee settlers from Poverty Bay, embarked at Whangawehi and taken on to Turanga. On the evening of the 16th, 15,000 rounds of rifle ammunition, 40 stand of arms, some tents, and 22 men of the Constabulary Force were despatched by the " Star of tho South" to Poverty Bay. To Mohaka, where a small band of Settlers and Natives are determined to hold their own, I sent per " St. Kilda " 6 stand of rifles and 10 casks of ammunition. Capt. AVestrup having given the strength of the enemy at 500, states that a larc;e European force is absolutely necessary to ensure success, and that for attack in the field 500 mixed forces would be requisite, also 200 for garrison duty. Considering that the safety of other Settlements would be secured by taking prompt steps with reference to Poverty Bay, I chartered the "Ahuriri" to proceed to Hick's Bay and the East Coast to obtain more reinforcements from the Ngatiporou Tribe, while about 200 of the Napier Natives accompanied by their chiefs Renata, Hapuku, and Tareha, have volunteered, and this day proceed to Poverty Bay in the " St. Kilda." Notwithstanding these large reinforcements, I cannot conceal from the Government the necessity for stationing a few companies of the Imperial Troops at AVairoa and Poverty Bay, and of providing a reliable European Force to take the field with the Natives. Without European aid, however eager and willing the friendly Natives may he to fight, it is scarcely to he expected, more especially if they meet with any reverse, that they will carry on a continuous warfare, although quite ready to take the field for occasional expeditions. Great credit is due to them for the aid and co-operation they have already afforded. I do not apprehend any immediate danger to Napier or its vicinity, but as a precautionary measure and to accustom the inhabitants to such discipline as will enable them to take their respective positions in case of attack, Captain AVray, of the 18th Pegiment, has kindly undertaken to form a night patrol with the Militia and A rolunteers, which will give the officers and men of those forces an opportunity of becoming acquainted under military direction with picquet and patrol duty. On the Northern frontier, towards Taupo, the place is not guarded against a surprise, and I have, therefore, considered it prudent to call upon the Settlers on the line of road from Meanee to Pohue to organise a system of communication by which they would be at once apprised of any movements of the enemy, besides having the opportunity of hearing direct from Napier any rumours from other portions of the Province. A copy of the instructions for this arrangement is herewith enclosed. Notwithstanding the measures that have been adopted, I feel that the Government should not relax in its endeavours to secure such a force as will suppress the present insurrection, and the sooner this is done the more speedily will the war on this coast be settled. The Government may rely upon my using every endeavour to assist in tho present emergency, but I feel it necessary to suggest that during a period of hostilities all instructions to, and letters from the different Military Officers on the Coast should come through me; I cannot but think it will be impossible to insure a successful carrying out of military plans where mixed forces are employed if even a semblance of divided authority is allowed to prevail. I herewith enclose copy of instructions to Mr. Hamlin, by whom I forwarded several letters to the leading chiefs of the East Coast of which I have not time to furnish copies. I also enclose translations of letters from the chiefs Henare Potae, Hirini te Kani, Ihaka Whanga and Hamiora Porourangi to whom I have sent acknowledgments. It appears that a few of the friendly Natives who joined the enemy voluntarily or from fear have been shot, and that Paratene Potote, a chief of high rank and excellent character, was with six others tied up preparatory to their being killed ; Paratene had previously returned all the rifles in his possession to the Government stores at Turanganui. I consider the Government has been most fortunate in the present juncture in securing Captain Westrup to command at Poverty Bay, cordially aided as he is by Captain Tuke and Lieutenant Gascoigne. It will be seen by Captain Westrup's letter that the friendly chiefs Henare Potae and Hirini have done good service, which entitled them to marked consideration by the Government. Ihaka AVhanga, who marched with 70 of his followers to the relief of Poverty Bay, also deserves the greatest credit for his conduct and example. I should not omit to mention that the A Tenerable Archdeacon L. Williams has done good service to the Colony by the excellent counsel imparted by him to both Europeans and Natives as well as by the courage and fortitude he has displayed during a period of unusual difficulty and anxiety. I have, &c., Donald McLean.

A.—No. 4a

12

FURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY

Enclosure 1 in No. 15. " Superintendent's Office, Napier, November 19. On the Northern frontier towards Taupo the place is not guarded against a surprise, and I have, therefore, considered it prudent to call upon the settlers on the line of road from Meanee to Pohui to organise a system of communication, by which they would be at once apprised of any movement of the enemy, besides hearing direct from Napier any rumours from other portions of the Province. A copy of the instructions for this arrangement is herewith enclosed. System of Patrol Communication from Meanee to Polmi. Meanee.—Mr. Maney to send a mounted man at 12 noon to Puketapu, who will receive a despatch and return with the same to Mr. Maney. Puketapu.—Mr. Heslop to send a mounted man at 11 a.m. to Mr. Hill's, who will receive a despatch and return with the same to Mr. Heslop, Tutaekuri. —Mr. Hill to send a mounted man at 10 a.m. to Peka Peka, who will receive a despatch and return with the same to Mr. Hill. Peka Peka.—Mr. AVilkin to send a mounted man at 9 a.m. to Taylor's station, who will receive a despatch aud return with the same to Mr. AVilkin. Glengarry.—Mr. Taylor to send a mounted man at 6 a.m. to Mr. Parsons' station, who will receive a despatch and return with the same to Mr. Taylor. Pohue. —Mr. Parsons to send a mounted man at 6 a.m. to Titiokura, or other direction where it is likely to ascertain the movement of the enemy. Mr. Parsons will write on a sheet of paper the result, and forward the same by the mounted man from Taylor's station. This despatch will bo left open, in order that any information may be added at the several halting places. When the persons named are absent from their stations, the despatch is to be fonvarded by a shepherd or other individual who may be present. Donald McLean, Superintendent."

Enclosure 2 in No. 15. Copy of a Letter from Captain AVesteup to His Honor D. McLean. Sic, — Turanganui, Sunday, 15th November, 1868. I have the honor to inform you of the safe arrival of myself and force at Turanganui on Friday, 13th instant, having on the way called at Mahia, and embarked Ihaka Whanga and about seventy of his men (forty only armed). On arrival I found the news you had already received fully corroborated. Thirty-four Europeans and fifteen Maoris are known to be killed (probably more). A correct return will be forwarded as soon as possible. With the exception of Tamihana himself and about five or six of his men, the whole of his people have joined the enemy. Paratene and men have also joined the enemy, who have since shot some of his people, and bound himself and six others, who, it is said, are to be shot to-day. The Muriwai people still hold out with about forty armed men, and refugees from other pas. They have sent for assistance. Renata AVhakari and three others, who went over to the enemy, have been shot by them. I have made use of two small vessels lying here to communicate with the Muriwai people, and have asked them to come over here, but without effect. The enemy are in great force, and are represented by Urewera prisoners and Waikatos, greatly reinforced by ex-friendlies, well armed, from AVairoa and elsewhere, the latter only a few, if any. They number at the least 500 men, and must have now in their possession over 300 rifles. lam holding this place and the court house on the right bank of the river, but my force all told is only 2SO, and many of these unarmed and none trained. AVhite reinforcements are continually inquired for by all, and the paucity of our numbers is producing a bad effect. The enemy have taken possession of Tamihana's pa, and are strongly posted at Puke Amionga and Captain AVestrup's. I should at least require 500 men to take the field, and 200 garrison. The enemy has brought all his women and children, and this coupled with the fact of their continually carting stores to their position leads me to believe that they intend to remain. They are led by Te Want, Te Kooti, Nama, llorowcra, and others. WiPere has joined them, in fact, nearly all have gone over. I propose making a reconnoissance to-day to bury the dead, if possible. A large reinforcement of Europeans is absolutely necessary ; with them I could attack the enemy, but without, success would be very doubtful. I have good reason to believe that with encouragement the Ngatiporou would take the matter into their own hands, and having good knowledge of war and some prestige, would most probably succeed in expelling the enemy and punishing him severely. I propose making a reconnoissance, not only with the object of burying as many of our dead as possible, but obtaining a better knowledge of the enemy's position. A few light field pieces or mortars would be most useful, with men to work them. I propose to detain a vessel for the purpose of communicating with the opposite side of the bay. By the next mail I trust to be able to furnish you with a correct detail of the dead and missing. We require arms, ammunition, and tents ; at least fifty stand of arms are required. Henare Potae, with Paora Parau, and Hirini, have behaved splendidly, and I trust the Government will acknowledge their services. I have, &c, His Honor Donald McLean, Chas. Westeup, General Government Agent, Napier. Captain Commanding Local Forces. Enclosure 3 in No. 15. Copy of a Letter from His Honor D. McLean to F. E. Hamlin, Esq. Sic,— Napier, 17th November, 1868. You will at once proceed by the steamer " Ahuriri" to the East Coast as far as Hick's Bay,

A.—No, 4a.

and collect as many able-bodied Natives of the Ngatiporou as are willing to volunteer for active service at Poverty Bay, taking care not to denude the settlements on the coast of such numbers as may bo necessary for their own defence. Should you succeed in obtaining 100 or 200 men, you will land them at Poverty Bay, and, after receiving despatches or anything which Captain Westrup may wish to send to Napier, you will proceed here. I wish you to take this opportunity of telling the Chief Mokena that if he has any reason to doubt or suspect the Hauhaus under his care, and to whom Government arms have been issued, that it might be advisable to ask them for these arms to be given over to the men who volunteer to come and fight. I wish Mokena and you to use a wise discretion in this matter, and not to press the point if it should appear impolitic or injudicious at the present time to do so. I enclose herewith letters to the chiefs named in the margin, which you will deliver. I have, &c, F. E. Hamlin, Esq., Napier. Donald McLean.

Rev. Mohi Turei, AVaiapu. Kai Te Mokena, Kei Waiapu. Kai Te Iharaira Te Houkamau, Kei Makerouia.

Enclosure 4 in No. 15. Copy of a Letter from His Honor D. McLean to J. H. Campbell, Esq. Sic,— Napier, 12th November, 1868. I telegraphed to Wellington this morning in reference to your being employed at Waiapu to look after the friendly Natives, and, although I have not yet received a reply, I feel certain that the Government will recognise the necessity of your being sent up to confer with Morgan and the other Chiefs in reference to the present state of affairs, and I trust you will do your utmost to prevent any of the Ngatiporou at Waiapu from joining the Hauhaus. The " Ahuriri" will land you at Awanui or Tuparoa, with twenty casks of ammunition for Morgan, and letters for him and the other Chiefs on the East Coast. I hope you will keep the Government advised of all proceedings by every possible opportunity. I have, &c, J. H. Campbell, Esq., Napier. Donald McLean.

No. 16. Copy of a Letter from His Honor D. McLean to the Hon. J. C. Richmond. Sir,— Napier, 23rd November, 1868. I have the honor to enclose correspondence with Captain Westrup and others, by which the Government will perceive what is being done at Poverty Bay and AVairoa. I cannot speak too highly of the judgment and zeal displayed by Captain AVestrup in acting with the Native Chiefs at Poverty Bay. I would also recommend for appointment and promotion in the Constabulary or other permanent force Lieutenant Gascoigne, whose behaviour so fully merits Captain AVestrup's recommendation. I would take this opportunity of urging upon the Government that a reinforcement of Europeans should be immediately sent here to co-operate with the Natives now in the field against the enemy. It is humiliating to feel that we are obliged to rely solely on Native allies in the present emergency ; tho effect upon the Natives generally cannot be encouraging. I have, &c., The Hon. J. C. Richmond, Wellington. Donald McLean.

Enclosure 1 in No. 16. Copy of a Letter from His Honor D. McLean to Captain Westeup. Sis, — Napier, 18th November, 1868. The " St. Kilda " is being despatched with the whole of the available Native force that have volunteered for service from this place. I would urge upon you the necessity of conferring fully with the Native chiefs in reference to all plans and operations against the enemy, and it would be well to yield very much to their advice, as they contribute the largest force. The chiefs from this place are Renata, Tareha, Te Hapuku, and Poara Kaiwhata. The " Ahuriri" has been despatched to Hick's Bay to enrol as many more of the Ngatiporou as can be got together ; you may daily expect her at Poverty Bay. IT necessary throw up additional earthworks and stockade. If the enemy has left Poverty Bay he should be followed up if possible, but your own judgment and discretion will readily suggest what ought to be done. I have, &c, Captain Westrup, Poverty Bay. Donald McLean.

Enclosure 2 in No. 16. Copy of a Letter from His Honor D. McLean to Major Lambeet. Sis,— Napier, 19th November, 1868. It appears that the Hau Haus are taking up positions and fortifying themselves at Poverty 4

OE MR. McLEAN ON THE EAST COAST.

13

FURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY

A.—No. 4a

14

Bay, and if there are no indications of an approaching enemy at Wairoa, it may be necessary to remove the Ngatiporou under Ropata and Hotene to Poverty Bay. I mention this that you may be prepared to defend Wairoa with the remaining force at your disposal. The " St. Kilda" sailed to Poverty Bay yesterday evening, with 200 natives from this place; I expect her back to-morrow, when she will proceed to the Wairoa with definite instructions respecting the Ngatiporou. I have, &c, Major Lambert, Commanding Troops, Wairoa. Donald McLean.

Enclosure 3 in No. 16. Copy of a Letter from Captain Westrup to His Honor D. McLean. Sib, — Turanganui, Poverty Bay, 20th November, IS6B. I have the honor to report that the Native expedition which started this morning for the purpose of reconnoitring, found on their arrival at Patutahi only a small section of the enemy, which they immediately attacked, killing two men and driving the remainder on to the hills by the road Te Kooti came from Puketapu. Our force is now in pursuit, and if I can get provisions up lam inclined to think the enemy will suffer considerably, hampered as they are with loot. An expedition might start from the AVairoa at once and so take them in front. I have this hope that it would not be too late. If Tareha and his people followed up quickly, the enemy's column must suffer severely in detail—or they will make a stand which would give the AVairoa party time to get up. I have, &c, Chas. Westeup, His Honor Donald McLean, Napier. Captain, Commanding Col. Troops, Poverty Bay.

Enclosure 4 in No. 16. Copy of a Letter from His Honor D. McLean to Captain Westeup. Ste, — Napier, 21st November, 1868. I now send tho " Ahuriri" to Poverty Bay, and shall feel obliged if you let me know as soon as possible the result of the expedition which you reported having followed the enemy yesterday. I have despatched the " St. Kilda" with Mr. Hamlin to Wairoa to move the Ngatiporou from thence inland to attack the enemy or to join you by sea. You will bear in mind that when the Tuparoas have left Wairoa, that District will be denuded of its force and the Northern boundary of this Province quite unguarded. If the Ngatiporou march Northwards with the view of intercepting the enemy who may be making an advance towards Wairoa or Mohaka, you will take into consideration that their force would not be more than 200, therefore you would have to use every caution in pursuing the enemy, and diverting his attention in order that he might not be allowed the advantage of bringing all his force to bear on so small a body of the friendlies or settlers who occupy positions on our Northern Frontier. I have, &c, Donald McLean. Captain Westrup, Commanding Colonial Forces, Poverty Bay.

Enclosure 5 in No. 16. Copy of a Letter from His Honor D. McLean to Major Lambert. Sir,— Napier, 21st November, 1868. I have the honor to acquaint you that hostilities have been commenced at Poverty Bay, and have to request that you will use your best efforts for the defence of the AVairoa and let the Tuparoas take the field against the enemy. It would be of importance if they could take the enemy in the rear of his present position at Poverty Bay by going overland, and a good supply of provisions should be afforded to them for this purpose. Mr. Hamlin is instructed to confer with the Tuparoas as to the speediest means of getting at the enemy's position. You will of course remain at the AVairoa and be prepared for any emergency that may arise. I have, &c, Major Lambert, Commanding Colonial Forces, Wairoa. Donald McLean.

Enclosure 6 in No. 16. Copy of a Letter from Major Lambeet to His Honor D. McLean. Sir,— AVairoa, 21st November, 1868. In reply to your letter dated 19th instant, just to hand relative to the removal of the Ngatiporou from this District, I have the honor to point out that before they are removed some means should be taken to secure the services of a body of Natives for the defence of Wairoa, and that from letters I have received from Government they do not appear to have contemplated the reduction of the force at this post. I have, &c, C. Lambert, His Honor D. McLean. Major Commanding Wairoa.

A—No. 4a.

OF MR. McLEAN ON THE EAST COAST.

15

No. 17. Copy of a Letter from His Honor D. McLean to the Hon. J. C. Richmond. Sir,— Napier, 23rd November, 1868. I have the honor to enclose the copy of a letter from Mr. Hamlin, by which it will be perceived that Major Lambert has prevented an important movement from being undertaken against the enemy from the AVairoa, by preventing Mr. Hamlin from taking the necessary steps with the AVairoa Chiefs to go with the Tuparoas. I would urge upon the Government the necessity of preventing a recurrence of such interference on the part of Major Lambert. It must be obvious to the Government that a strict or stereotyped adherence to instructions given at one time may be fatal to success, and that instructions, like the tactics of the enemy, must be liable to change from time to time as circumstances require. I would therefore urge upon the Government the necessity of giving the officers on this coast instructions that they are, at least during a time when important operations are being conducted, to take their orders direct from me, otherwise I fear that divided authority must lead to disasters that even yet may be averted. I have, &c, The Hon. J. C. Richmond, AVellington. Donald McLean.

Enclosure in No. 17. Copy of a Letter from Mr. F. E. Hamlin to His Honor D. McLean. Sir,— Napier, 22nd November, 1868. I have the honor to report to you on my last visit to AVairoa, which according to instructions was to organise an expedition, chiefly of Ngatiporous stationed at AVairoa. On arriving at Wairoa, I at once proceeded to the township, delivered letters and despatches, then proceeded to consult with Chiefs. Ropata and Hotene at once expressed their willingness to join with the local friendly Natives. I then sent for Paora Te Apatu, and asked Major Lambert the favour of sending two of his Native men to collect the other Native Chiefs in order to hold a general meeting of the Chiefs. Major Lambert replied by saying that he would like to know first what I was going to do ? I replied I wished to have a general meeting, with a view of organising an expedition to take the enemy in rear. He at once replied that he would not allow me to interfere with the local Natives (sic) — that his instructions I had nothing to do with the local Natives (sic). Ngatiporou not feeling themselves strong enough to take the field single-handed, I felt myself crippled, and after some consultation with Mr. Deighton, R.M. of that district, together with those of the friendly Chiefs I could get together, I again returned to Major Lambert, and asked him if he insisted on what he had stated previously ? He replied in the affirmative, and read me a letter, dated 14th instant, from the Hon. J. C. Richmond, in support of his conduct. I therefore felt it my duty at once to steam to Napier, and report on the subject. I have, &c, His Honor D. McLean, Esq., &c, &c, Napier. F. E. Hamlin.

No. 18. Copy of a Letter from the Hon. J. C. Richmond to His Honor D. McLean. Sir,— Wellington, 25th November, 1868. I have the honor to acknowledge your letter of the 23rd instant, enclosing a copy of a letter from Mr. Hamlin, and complainiag that Major Lambert has prevented an important movement against the enemy by his interference. After carefully considering the facts of the case, it appears to the Government that you have fallen into an error in superseding Major Lambert in his own district by communicating important Military orders to an inferior officer without reference to him. Such a course must be fertile in misunderstanding and subversive of discipline. Whilst the Government recognises it as a necessity in times of emergency that a Commanding Officer should carry out the explicit orders of its accredited agent even at some considerable risk, and in some cases against his own better judgment, it is no less clearly due to him that he should be the prime instrument of all movements affecting the safety of his district. It can hardly have escaped your recollection that only a few days before you had, in a telegram to the Government of the 17th November, expressed the opinion that the removal of the Ngatiporou from the AVairoa would be followed by the defection of the bulk of the Friendly Natives ; probably Major Lambert shared that belief, and as you did not confide to him the grounds of your alteration of view, nor the responsibility of the movement in question, it is impossible to blame his excess of caution although the Government very much deplore the probable result. The Government have not fettered you with inflexible instructions, and they consider the circumstances and the nature of the country require that Officers at exposed outposts should be allowed a certain discretion in tho mode of carrying out operations which involve more or less danger to their command. But I feel sure that if your future instructions as to Major Lambert's district are conveyed through him and with due information as to the intent and importance of the orders, he will on his part be found ready to incur any risk that may fairly be imposed upon him in order to carry them into effect. — I have, &c., His Honor D. McLean. J. C. Richmond.

A.—No. 4a

16

EURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY

No. 19. Copy of a Letter from Captain Westeup to His Honor D. McLean. Sic,— Turanganui, Poverty Bay, 25th November, 1868. I have the honor to inform you that the Native Contingent succeeded on Monday night, 23rd instant, at 6 o'clock, in coming upon the enemy camped in tents, with their women and children. They found the enemy entrenched on a small flat with a creek running through it, but perfectly clear of bush. After some little firing an attempt was made to carry the position with a rush. Ngaitahupo with the prophet Hamuera Toiroa, taking a conspicuous position. The success was only partial, for after inflicting a loss on the enemy of more than twenty killed, and carrying away two rifles, our contingent retired for the night to a hill overlooking the enemy, and distant some sixteen hundred yards, our loss being four killed and twelve wounded, one dangerously. Neither party can bury their dead on account of the galling fire kept up by both forces. Among the slain is the prophet Hamuera Toiroa of Ngaitahupo tribe, who prophesied his own death would follow Te Kooti's. There is some reason to think Te Kooti is killed, for one of the enemy cried out, " As you have lost your head, I will be your Chief," and" many say they recognised Te AVaru's voice. If Ngatiporou arrive in time they will most likely carry the enemy's position, for the space enclosed by ditch and parapet is so large as to encompass the enemy's canvas town as it is called, and the enemy having to defend two sides will be so weakened as to render success almost certain. Our position is admirably situated for artillery and rocket practice, and I strongly recommend you to secure if possible the services of a Man-of-AVar's Rocket Brigade, together with a couple of light guns for throwing shells, grape, &c. The road is sufficiently good to allow the transit of them. Fighting at long ranges is still going on. I have, &c. Charles Westeup, His Honor D. McLean, Napier. Captain Commanding.

No. 20. Copy of a Letter from Mr. F. E. Hamlin to His Honor D. McLean. Sis,— Wairoa, 26th November, 1868. I have the honor to inform you that the expedition moved off yesterday. I followed them to-day, and saw everything in a fair way. They certainly went off in splendid spirits, declaring to stain themselves in blood by way of revenge. The late news from Poverty Bay has so exasperated them that even some women of masculine spirit have joined the expedition. 1 shall stay on here for a time, as I am certain the Major will not do anything in case it's wanted. A thousand pities he retarded me on my first arrival, otherwise wo might have had the expedition off much easier ; reflection damped their spirits. Nevertheless, the expedition has moved off about 370 strong. I hope you have sent reinforcements to Poverty Bay, as the harder we attack them on that side the less they will expect anyone on the rear, and the better chance of success. I shall send to AVestrup, and warn him of the time the expedition may reach the enemy's reported position. I intend to place a Native at Happy Jack's, to keep up the communication with Wairoa from that place, in case of steamers calling in there. I shall very likely proceed to Mohaka to-morrow. I have, &c, Donald McLean, Esq., General Government Agent, Napier. F. E. Hamlin.

No. 21. Copy a Letter from the Hon. J. C. Richmond to His Honor D. McLean. Colonial Defence Office, Sis,— Wellington, 26th November, 1868. I have the honor to acknowledge receipt of your letter of the 14th instant, with copies of correspondence between yourself and Major Lambert, dated as per margin, and requesting information as to whether you have correctly interpreted my instructions to this officer. The object of the Government most distinctly was to act upon the defensive at AVairoa and Poverty Bay until a European Force could be brought up. The townships at Clyde and Turanganui were accordingly furnished with garrisons, the defensive works ordered to be perfected and furnished with stores and ammunition. The instructions to this effect were submitted to you at Wairoa. The unhappy raid upon the defenceless settlers at Turanga altered this purpose, but Major Lambert was not in any way to blame for the course he took prior to that disaster. I have, &c, His Honor D. McLean, &c, &c, &c, Napier. J. C. Richmond.

No. 22. Copy of a Letter from Mr. G. Preece to the Hon. J. C. Richmond. Resident Magistrate's Office, Sis, — Wairoa, 11th December, 1868. I have the honor to report, for your information, that in accordance with instructions received from the General Government Agent at Napier, I left AVairoa on the 26th ult. for Te Kapu, where I found the Ngatiporou and AVairoa Natives had encamped; the intention of the Natives then was to

OF MR. McLEAN ON THE EAST COAST.

17

A.—No. 4a.

proceed to Puketapu, and attack that place, which they thought could be easily taken, and afterwards proceed to Turanga, on the track the rebels took to that place; but just before starting Mr Hamlin Drought up a letter from Capt. Westrup to Major Lambert, which reported the engagement at Te Keretu ; and, also, that the rebels, under Te AVaru, were making towards the Hangaroa, where it was supposed they had built a pa. Mr Hamlin had a talk with the chiefs, and it was then decided to go to Hangaroa instead of Puketapu ; we accordingly started with a force of 376 men, got to Opoiti that night, and the following day reached AVaihau, from whence I sent a messenger to Capt. AVestrup (by the Ahimanu track), who was to return the next evening to meet us at Tarewa, on the Hangaroa, with a letter from Capt. AVestrup. We got to Tarewa the next day at 10 a.m ; sent scouts out on the hills, but could only see the fire at Te Keretu. There were no signs of the enemy being near Hangaroa. We, however, waited till 4 p.m. on Sunday, but the messenger not having returned, Hotene and the other chiefs thought it advisable to go on to Turanga with the whole force. We accordingly started and arrived at the camp near Patutahi that night, about 10 p.m. On Monday morning I went with Capt. Tuke to Turanganui, to see Capt. Westrup ; on the way down I met the messenger I had sent on Friday from Waihau; he said he had missed his way, and only got down to Turanganui on Sunday, at 10 a.m. (I am inclined to think he was frightened to go by daylight, and had only travelled after dark.) At Turanganui I saw Capt. AVestrup, who informed me that he did not wish us to come to Turanga, but as we were there, the best thing that could be done was to go up to Te Keretu, where the Ngatikahungunu were engaged with the rebels. We accordingly marched for that place on Tuesday, and reached the enemy's camp, &c.; outflanked them on Wednesday. A consultation was then held with the different chiefs, who decided upon dislodging them from a hill which they had possession of, and making a general attack at 5 a.m. the next morning. I then went with Te Hapimana and about forty men of the different AVairoa hapus to take the hill. We had nearly taken it when a messenger came to tell us that the Ngatiporou would make an attack on the main post, as the enemy's shots were going into their camp. By this time the Ngatikurupakiaka and Kehu joined us and drove the enemy off the hill, killing three men. I then left with the Ngatipuku and a few others and joined the Ngatiporou. The Heretaunga Natives then poured in a heavy volley, while we took two of the rebel positions, who fell back on their last line of rifle pits close to the river. They were then attacked on the one side by Ngatikahungunu of Napier, on the other side by Ngatikahungunu of Wairoa, and by Ngatiporou in the middle. They held their post till we were within fifteen yards of them, and were obliged at last to retreat across the river, in doing which they suffered severe loss, Nama being among the killed. The Heretanga Natives, however, kept up such a strong fire that the Ngatiporou and others were prevented from following the enemy through the scrub and across the river. Henare Parata, Kehu, and several more of note were killed here. I counted twenty-one killed in this engagement, but the Natives report having found thirty-four. Two prisoners were taken on this occasion, whom the Ngatiporou wished to shoot, but it was overruled by Tareha. The next morning Hotene and Ropata went out on the hills opposite, and saw the Hauhau pa on a wooded hill about four miles off. Tareha's people came up and wanted to attack the place, but Hotene refused, as he said the saving the two prisoners was an ill omen. AYe returned to camp, where after great persuasion the Ngatiporou agreed to go up the next day with Tareha's people. I then went with Mr Gascoigne to Tareha, and informed him that they were willing to go, when he (Tareha) refused, saying he had wanted to go in the morning, but would not go then. He shortly after left for Turanga, and it was with great difficulty I prevented some of the AVairoa people from doing the same thing. On Friday, the 4th, the Ngatiporou, Ngaitahupo, and AVairoa Natives proceeded to attack the Hauhau pa, the AVairoa Natives bringing up the rear. We went some distance up the bed of the Wharekopae River, then ascended a wooded hill about two miles long; when nearly at the top we sighted the pa, which was an earthwork at the top of the hill, with manuka scrub put round it to hide the fortification. On the one side was a steep cliff, thickly wooded in tho front, facing as it was flat ground, but covered with heavy manuka to within thirty yards of the entrenchment. I was waiting till Ropata came up to tho top of the hill, when some of our party fired a shot; the enemy then fired a heavy volley, which from some cause unknown to me caused a panic, and every man retreated with the utmost expedition for nearly half a mile. lat last, in conjunction with Ihaka Whanga, persuaded them to stop till Ropata returned ; but we could not induce them to return to the attack at that time. However, shortly afterwards I again started with Ropata and some sixteen men, and took up a position at the side of the cliff about twenty-five yards from the pa. I then went down the hill and found that most of the people had retreated, and that Ihaka AVhanga could not get his men to stir. I succeeded, however, in getting nine men, five of which I left to keep the road at the top of the hill, the remainder I took with me to Ropata's assistance, who then went down and got thirty more of his men. AYe dug rifle pits at the edge of the cliff with a billhook, and poured in a hot fire. About three p.m. we took part of the entrenchment, and killed three of the enemy. At this time Ihaka's people hearing we had possession of the entrenchment came up to the number of about thirty more. About 7 p.m. Ropata asked me if I would go down and try to get up powder, promising to hold the position till my return. I accordingly went down and met a messenger from Mr. Gascoigne, who said he had been trying to get the Natives, who had retreated, to go up again, but without success. I arrived at camp at 9 p.m., but nothing would induce the natives to go up that night with ammunition, as it was very dark. At daylight, however, the next morning they started with provisions and ammunition. Mr. Gascoigne and myself were just starting up with the rest of Ngatiporou and the Wairoa men, when we met a man who informed us that Ropata was coming down, as he could hold out no longer for want of ammunition. On Ropata's arrival it was agreed upon to return to Turanga, as they were thoroughly knocked up with their twelve days' marching. The men were in excellent spirits and quite willing to undertake another campaign when they had rested. Accounts vary as to the number killed in the different engagements. The Natives estimate the 5

A.—No. 4a,

18

FURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY

loss to be over a hundred. I myself estimate it at sixty-five, but they might have had better opportunities of judging than I had, but a great many more must have been wounded in the retreat through the scrub, as the firing was very heavy, and well directed. I have, &c, The Hon. J. C Richmond, George Preece, Native Office, Wellington. Native Interpreter.

No. 23. Copy of a Letter from the Hon. J. C. Richmond to AY. S. Atkinson, Esq., R.M., Turanganui. (No. 61-3.) Sir,— AVellington, February 13th, 1869. I have the honor to request you to visit Tuparoa and AVaiapu by the St. Kilda, which brings this despatch, taking with you Sergt. Ferris, of the Turanga Militia, for the purpose of recruiting the Armed Constabulary among the Ngatiporou tribe. The details of terms are contained in instructions to Sergt. Ferris, which you will please deliver to him, and in the Acts and Regulations referring to the Constabulary, enclosed herewith. It will be most advisable that the usual term of engagement for three years, as well as the other conditions of service, should be adhered to ; but if the length of engagement is an obstacle, Sergt. Ferris will be justified in accepting enlistment for twelve months. The Government rely much on your reasoning and influence with the Chiefs in obtaining their cordial assent to the enlistment, and wish you to explain thoroughly that the men will not be detained to the full limit of their engagement if the peace of the country is sufficiently established to allow of their returning to their homes earlier. I have, &c, W. S. Atkinson, Esq., R.M., Turanganui. J. C. Richmond.

Instructions to Sergt. Ferris, with regard to raising Natives for Armed Constabulary. (Forwarded under cover to AY. S. Atkinson, Esq., R.M., Turanga.) The Government desire to raise sixty (60) or seventy (70) men for the Armed Constabulary, from the Friendly Tribes upon the East Coast. You will select them from the Ngatiporou or any tribe not connected with the rebels, except the Ngatikahungunu. The Ngatiporou would do best for the service required, and the number might, if necessary, be made up of a few very carefully chosen from the Aitangahauiti or the Turanga tribes. You are to limit the enlistment generally to men under twenty-five years of age, of good character, temperate habits, and of a healthy physique. The terms of enlistment will be for twelve (12) months, if a longer term is objected to, and the men will receive the pay and allowances, and be in all respects subject to the regulations for the Armed Constabulary, copies of which are enclosed for your information. You will in the first instance raise whatever men may be available at Tuparoa ; and then proceed to such points of the coast on the Ngatiporou country as you may deem most suitable for your purpose, filling up from the more southerly tribes on your return. I have, &c, J. C Richmond.

No. 24. Copy of a Letter from His Honor D. McLean to the Hon. Dr. Pollen, Auckland. Sis,— Napier, 16th February, 1869. I have the honor herewith to forward the translation of a letter received from Rihimona of Nuhaka, who obtained his information from Ihaka AVhanga, the principal chief of the Mahia, near Table Cape ; it appears that Karipa, son of Tamihana Ruatapu, who had been with Te Kooti, had arrived at Te Muriwai, near Poverty Bay, and informed the Natives of that place that the Hauhaus were proposing to make a descent on Opotiki, AVairoa, or Turanga. I have no information at present on the subject beyond what the letter contains. I have, &c, The Hon. Dr. Pollen, Auckland. Donald McLean.

No. 25. Copy of a Letter from His Honor D. McLean to the Hon. the Colonial Secretary, Wellington. Sis,— Napier, 12th March, 1869. The general threatening aspect of affairs in the North Island induces me to discharge what I conceive to be my duty to the Colony, by representing to His Excellency's Ministers what in my opinion is the position of the East Coast, the part of the country with which I am most connected, and to indicate the action which I conceive advisable to meet present difficulties. The various settlements on the East Coast are threatened with destruction, murders are committed at different points, and life and property deemed quite insecure. At AVairoa, Te AVaru, with about sixty of his own followers, besides adherents from the Uriwera and other tribes, is ready to attack any outsettlers or friendly Natives who may come within his reach, while the friendly Natives, bewildered by different and conflicting instructions, are at a loss to know, while willing to act, what steps to take for the public safety, and although constantly appealed to on the subject, I do not feel that the Government place me in a position to enable me to act with sufficient authority in this matter.

OF MR. McLEAN on the east coast.

19

A.—No. 4a

The condition of Poverty Bay, with deserters and spies from Te Kooti's ranks who are settling among the resident Natives, is far from being satisfactory, while Opotiki is exposed to attack by Te Kooti, who, if allowed to retain his present threatening attitude, will soon obtain considerable assistance from various tribes; any success on his part will also ensure AVaikato support, and thus create a fresh combination of difficulties which it will be exceedingly difficult to meet; I would, therefore, submit for the consideration of Government, that the East Coast tribes should be induced to act at once against Te Kooti and Te AVaru, so as to prevent their gaining further accessions of strength, and this appears more urgently necessary before AVaikato throws in its aid; should this course be effectually carried out, it would free the Government from anxiety for this side of the Island ; while if delayed, a large force would be eventually required to meet the exigency, and disasters would almost certainly ensue before it could be met. Ropata, who is now here, would take the field with Ngatiporou, and if aided by a small European force, the growing difficulties at Opotiki and the East Coast might bo checked before terminating in further calamities. If the course which I have suggested should meet with the approval of Ministers, I shall be willing to afford any assistance I can in furtherance thereof. I have, &c, The Hon. the Colonial Secretary, AVellington. Donald McLean.

No. 26. Copy of a Letter from the Hon. E. W. Stafford to His Honor D. McLean. Colonial Secretary's Office, Sir,— AVellington, 18th March, 1869. In a memorandum addressed by you to the Government at the close of last session, tendering your services as General Government Agent on the East Coast, your Honor founded your offer on the opinion that it was the duty of every Colonist to assist, and to induce the co-operation of the Friendly Natives. The Government in accepting your services were, therefore, justified in expecting your loyal support. The part your Honor has thought fit to take, notwithstanding the earnest and repeated remonstrances of the Government, in advising the Chief Ropata AVahawaha and a party of Natives who had joined the Armed Constabulary, to break their engagement after they had been sworn in, and had actually sailed in the Colonial steamer " St;. Kilda," to join the force under Colonel Whitmore, is however, so vicious an example in itself, and exhibits such an irreconcilable difference between yourself and the Government as to the import of such terms as assistance and co-operation, and as to the proper mode of dealing with the Maori population, that the Government are compelled to cancel Mr. Richmond's Memorandum of the 12th October last, and to withdraw the authority you have hitherto held as their agent. I have, &c, His Honor D. McLean, Esq., Napier. E. W. Stafford.

No. 27. Copy of a Letter from Karaitiana Takamoana to the Government of Port Nicholson. Fbiends, Greeting,— Pakowhai, 23rd March, 1869. This is a letter from me which I forward to you for your perusal, and when you read it what will be your action (in connection with it) ? I have to say to you, with respect to the return of Ropata AVahawaha, that it was not caused by Mr. McLean, but by me, and also of his own accord. He was induced to come by a threat—that if they did not come their guns would be taken from them. On this account Ropata came, but with his own thoughts on the matter within him, and when he reached me I advised him not to go. It is not the first time that I and Ropata have consorted together. At the first commencement of hostilities at Waiapu we became connected together, and then it was 1 who procured from Mr. McLean guns and gave them to Ngatiporou, and my regard for that tribe has ever since continued and when Ropata came I sent him back and he went back. The report which I hear that Mr. McLean is to be overthrown is not clear (satisfactory) to me ; it may be clear to you, but if he Makarini fall I say that we the whole of the Maoris of this Coast will fall with him—the man to whom we have looked in days of danger lately passed. If you send us a fresh man for this place we shall be afflicted with many grievances, matters affecting our position will not be so satisfactory as they have been in days past. AYe do not know whether he would conduct affairs so justly as they are now conducted, probably not. Ropata when he came hither had no intention of proceeding yonder (to Wellington), not so —his purpose was to return home again, but he wanted some information meanwhile. When Ngatiporou found that he was on board the ship, men were shipped; and when Te Hakitini (?) saw that many men were on board he insisted that we should go to Patea, but Ngatiporou refused. AVhereupon the said Pakeha frightened them by saying that their guns should be taken from them if they would not go. For what reason do you our friends speak to us in this manner? According to my idea you should teach us those things which are right. This is all from Kabaitiana Takamoana. To the Government of Port Nicholson.

A.—No. 4a,

Mr. F. E. Hamlin to Mr. J. C. Richmond. AVairoa, 12th October, 1868. Arrived here 10th instant. Scouts under Karaitiana Rotoatara have been out fourteen days. No tidings ; great alarm as to their safety. Friendly Natives mustering to send an expedition in search to ascertain, if killed to take revenge. Settlers hard at work finishing redoubt. Division among Friendly Natives from AVaihirere —Paora Apatu's pa and up to Tamihana Hoati's pa, being one section ; and Ngatiruru Pukiaka to Kabu, being the other section. Latter section strong, in a very doubtful state. To disarm them very injudicious, with a superior force. Natives at Mohaka in a very healthy state. Ready to serve north or south of home. Pass to Rewi te Nahu not yet gone. No chance of communication with ex-prisoners, or else would do so. Have been requested by Deighton and Captain Tuke to stay for a day or two to await result of present movements. Deficiency of arms at .Mohaka, 31 Enfields, fair supply of ammunition, 19 muskets, no ammunition. Have sent to Ihaka AVhanga to consult with him, will be here I hope to-day ; have also sent to Te Waru to come down to have friendly chat. Very doubtful as to coming in. Nama been sent for, strongly suspected as having been implicated in the supposed murdered scouts. If Karaitiana Rotoatara killed will be very much felt by Government. Ex-prisoners supposed to be in great force at or near pa Puri. Will endeavour to find the number of arms in every tribe along the coast. F. E. Hamlin.

Mr. Ormond to Mr. J. C. Richmond. Napier, loth October, 1808, 9.45 a.m. Intelligence from Wairoa. Have letters from Deighton, Hamlin, and other scouts, all showing great excitement and alarm ; cause disappearance party scouts fourteen in number under Karaitiana. Belief of Deighton and Wairoa Natives scouts murdered. I see no sufficient ground for this. Scouts may be captured and detained. Wairoa Natives generally reported as unreliable. The Friendlies have raised party 100 strong and gone to see after scouts. Mohaka Natives and Ihaka Whanga's party sent for by Wairoas. Sub-Inspector Tuke in command at Wairoa, a good man. Deighton's letters say fighting imminent. AVhen McLean arrives will urge his going AVairoa at once. If McLean not left Wellington communicate this telegram. Ormond.

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. J. C. Richmond. Napier, 15th October, 1808. The murder of Native scouts by ex-prisoners renders reinforcements necessary without delay. Major Fraser and his men, who know the country and Natives, would be of great value. If assistance is not immediate I fear tbe Wairoa will be lost. Prisoners are in great force, joined by Te Waru. Donald McLean.

Mr. J. C. Richmond to Mr. Donald McLean. Wellington, 10th October, 1868. Osmond's and Withers' Telegrams received. " St. Kilda" under orders for Napier, AVairoa and AVaiapu to-morrow. Wdl bring all available men. I come in her, and hope you will be able to join. Reply with latest news. J. C. Richmond.

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. J. C. Richmond. Napier, 10th October, 1868. STErs I recommend and desire approved for meeting Wairoa difficulty. To obtain assistance Ngatiporou tribe. I can obtain their services. May have to go myself to get them. Ngatiporou and Wairoa Native force will have to be paid and fed. Steamer procurable here to transport Ngatiporou to AVairoa. Again urge that Major Fraser and force be sent back at once ; he knows the Natives well, and worked with them efficiently before. Tuke meantime best officer to command. Prompt action necessary. Reply requested. Donald McLean.

Lieut.-Col. Lambert to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 19th October, 1808, 2 p.m. Messrs. Richmond and McLean embarked with thirteen Europeans and sixty Natives for Wairoa. Latest from Tuke, 17th. Enemy in force. Te Kooti, AVaikatos, and Ureweras within five miles of Clyde. Wairoa Natives in their pahs. A Native taken prisoner almost in sight of Clyde. J. Richmond requested 6

TELEGRAMS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY OF MR. MCLEAN ON THE EAST COAST.

A.—No. 4a

TELEGRAMS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY

22

me to remain in Napier, and confer with Air. Ormond for security of Province. It would he more satisfactory to me if I knew to what extent lam to be interfered with by civil authorities. Am I to wait instructions from Mr. Ormond before I can march to meet the enemy, should he appear in the vicinity of Napier ? Captain Withers has just informed me hence order dated sth September, 1868, not to issue arms without orders from Defence Office. Mr. Ormond has ordered twenty stand to Natives at Napier, and Mr. McLean has taken eighty stand to Wairoa. C. Lambert.

Mr. Ormond to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 19th October, 1868,4.4 p.m. Despatches just received from Deighton and Tuke. News to yesterday. Nothing important since Richmond's telegrams. Enemy within three miles of Wairoa, in force. Wairoas in better spirits, having heard from us support coming. " Star of South" and " St. Kilda" started from Wairoa this day at one, taking 120 Friendly Natives under Renata and Tareha, supplies and ammunition. Richmond and McLean gone first to Wairoa, then per " St. Kilda" to East Coast to bring Ngatiporou down. Letters received to-day from Biggs from Turanga. Everything right there when he wrote. Will send news regularly as it reaches me. " Star" returns here with women and children from Wairoa. J. D. Oemond.

Colonel Lambeet to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 20th October, 1808, 2.30 p.m. Despatch from Tuke. Place in imminent danger. Block house at Military settlement abandoned. Settlers are at Clyde. Enemy in large force on both banks of river. They have requested the Friendlies to clear the way for them to fight the Pakehas. Karaitiana's death has had the effect of increasing the breach with the Hauhaus. Attack expected. Mr. Richmond and reinforcement will be there in a few hours. C. Lambert.

Colonel Haultain to Mr. J. D. Ohmond. Bdgs., 20th October, 1868. We have just enrolled 100 men for the Constabulary at Auckland, who have been ordered to Wellington by first opportunity. If they go by Napier they can be detained there if necessary to reinforce Wairoa. I will direct Colonel Moule to send them that way if they have not already started by the other Coast, and I send you a Telegram to forward to him in case there is an earlier opportunity from Napier. T. M. Haultain. Colonel Haultain to Lieut.-Col. Moule. Bdgs., 20th October, 1868. If the 100 men that you have enrolled for the Constabulary have not already left Auckland, send them by the first opportunity by the East Coast, calling at Napier, where they are to disembark if required by the local authorities. T. M. Haultain. This Telegram to be sent to Mr. Ormond at Napier, for transmission to Auckland by first opportunity. T. M. Haultain.

Colonel Haultain to Mr. J. D. Ormond. Bdgs., 20th October, 1868. Your various Telegrams received this morning. A'olunteers are Militiamen, and the calling out of the latter includes tbe others. So long as the Telegraph is open, you are not to take any measures that will incur expense without reference to the Government here. No arms are to be issued to the Natives without express authority fiom the Defence Office. No steps will be taken to move Major Fraser and his men from the AVest Coast until Mr. Richmond reports on the actual state of affairs at Wairoa. T. M. Haultain.

Colonel Haultain to Mr. J. C. Richmond. Bdgs., 20th October, 1868. Your Telegrams received this morning. We shall not move Major Fraser and his men until we hear from you of the actual state of affairs at Wairoa. There are 3500 stand of arms in the Province, including 300 muskets, some of which might be issued if necessary to the Natives. Wairoa will be proclaimed a Militia District, and under the " Public-House Act." T. M. Haultain.

Mr. J. D. Ormond to Colonel Haultais. Napier, 29nd October, 1808, 3.55 p.m. The " Star of the South" in—brings no letter or report from either Deighton or Tuke. Cannot account for this—only letter received from St. George to me. He reports that main body of enemy have never been nearer than Maru Maru, twelve miles from Clyde. Nothing certain is known of enemy's position. Richmond and McLean could not communicate with Wairoa. " St. Kilda" went on to East Coast for Ngatiporou. lam obliged to say that reports Government Officers AVairoa have sent here and which you have received from us were not justifiable. No women came away. Will communicate further after consideration. Ormond.

OF MR. McLEAN ON THE EAST COAST.

23

A,—No. 4a,

Lieut.-Col. Lambert to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 22nd October, 1868, 4 p.m. Steamer in from W Tairoa landed men at Mahia who would arrive at Clyde this day about noon ; landed stores at Clyde, and sailed from thence this morning, It appears to have been a false alarm as the enemy does not appear to have been seen. Settlers gone to their homes. Some houses at Military Settlement have been plundered, others not touched. Enemy thought to be between Wairoa and Poverty Bay—this is only rumour—this is all the intelligence [ could get from Captain and Mate of Steamer. No report from Officer in command. Friendly Natives may have plundered houses. C. Lambert.

Colonel Haultain to Major Lambert. Bdgs., 22nd October, 1868. A rou are to proceed with as little delay as possible to Wairoa to take command there. T. M. Haultain.

Mr. J. D. Ormond to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 22nd October, 1868, 7 p.m. Enquiry shows St. George's letter the only letter received here. Purport of that letter Native scouts have exaggerated vicinity of enemy and immediate danger at Wairoa. Question for consideration now is, what has to be done. Ngatiporous' arrival will make our Native force on pay at Wairoa, 500 men. Enemy have plenty of food, hold Upper Wairoa country, cultivations and food of Friendlies. The menace is same as ever though less immediate, the difficulty of attacking enemy greater, he being further off and in difficult country. If enemy has to be fought we shall probably have to attack, and shall want small force to lead. Men from Auckland might be stopped here till Richmond's arrival; if wanted then ready, if not, St. Kilda could take them on. Major Lambert still here :he might be stopped to work men into shape whilst detained here. "Ahuriri" due here now. Letters, late reports, Ac, will be sent you by her. Please reply about men, orderly sent to Wairoa. Deighton and Tuke directed to report immediately state of their district. Blamed them for not reporting by steamer. J. D. Ormond.

Mr. Joseph H. Rhodes to Mr. C. E. Haughton. Napier, 29th October, 1868, 3.20 p.m. The "St. Kilda" returns to Wairoa to-morrow, to fetch Mr Richmond and Mr McLean. No despatches from anyone at the Port. Hoteni and 157 men came down in the "St. Kilda" and landed at Wairoa. Henare Potae and 100 men are placed under Major Biggs at Turanga, to check disaffection there. So reported Major Green to me who has returned to tbe place in the " St. Kilda." Joseph H. Rhodes.

Mr. J. C. Richmond to Major Lambert. Wellington, 4th November, 1868. If nothing can be promptly done, send back Heretaonga Natives, the Ngatiporou. Keep fifty of Ihaka AVhanga's men for a defensive garrison, at 2s 6d per diem, as long as necessary. Could not spare the Auckland Constables, the Patea Force being in shocking disorganization still. Send telegrams as often as you can. J. C. Richmond.

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. J. C. Richmond. November Oth, 1869. " St. Kilda" left yesterday morning for Wairoa, Major Lambert went on to Wataroa. Hauhaus had left. Party of them supposed to be moving to Poverty Bay. Heuheu is here from Taupo. No late news from there. Donald McLean.

Mr. D. McLean to the Defence Minister. November 7th, 1869. Napier natives are back from Wairoa. Reached Wataroa, found no enemy. Shot an old man, took a woman prisoner. Found grave of scouts. Re-interred bodies. Hauhaus said to be going to Poverty Bay Enemy should have been followed up to Puketapu and Poverty Bay. Propose " St. Kilda" should proceed to Poverty Bay to ascertain whereabouts of Hauhaus. Donald McLean. Colonel Haultain to Mr. D. McLean. Wellington, Bth November, 1868. Instructions go to Major Lambert by " St. Kilda," to make expedition to Reinga as suggested by him. Copy of telegram ordered to be sent to you. " St. Kilda" should start as soon as possible. T. M. Haultain.

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. J. 0. Richmond. November 9th, 1868. Major Lambert states " Expedition returned, no enemy appearing/ I have, as directed by tbe Hon. Mr. Richmond, embarked tbe Natives on board ' St. Kilda.'" My impression is that your instructions conveyed no direction of the kind. It was fully intended to find out the position of the enemy before breaking

A.—No. 4a,

24

TELEGRAMS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY

up the expedition. The Chiefs are indignant at having to return without doing something. I believe if Tuke and the Natives had gone on as arranged before we left, that we should soon have had an account of the enemy. The present state of things is very unsatisfactory. Are you coming up in " Sturt ?" You did not name Wataroa as the point to return from. Donald McLean.

Colonel Haultain to Major Lambert, Wairoa. (To be forwarded by " St. Kilda.) Wellington, Bth November, 1868. You can go up the river to Reinga with Ngatiporou and Europeans as you propose, and on return, if the Hauhaus are quiet, the Ngatiporous are to proceed home in the " St. Kilda." The pay of the Militia and Military Settlers serving in their own district is 4s. a day and not 55., and these can get no more. Rations to their families must be charged against the men. Mr. Tuke to explain why he named ss. as the rate of pay. Militiamen get no pay for mere parade. Keep down all unnecessary expenditure. The Wairoa Militia are to get only 2s. 6d. and rations. T. M. Haultain.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. November 10th, 1868. I consider, it would be quite necessary to retain. Tuparoa Natives until more is known of the Hauhaus. The murder of the scouts prove that they will not remain quiet. Uncertainty with reference to them worse than a state of actual warfare. News of their intended plans received from Taupo confirmed by prisoners. Be glad to hear from you on this point. Donald McLean.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. November llth, 1868. AVant authority to employ steamer from Auckland, and to send Captain Tuke to command at Poverty Bay. Authority wanted to enrol some volunteers. Withers gone to Wairoa. Despatched letter to Major Lambert to keep vigilant guard at the Wairoa. Instructions to Military Officers in present juncture should come through me, otherwise unity of action cannot be obtained. Donald McLean.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, llth November, 1868. Report by " Tawera," Poverty Bay taken by Hauhau prisoners. Biggs, Wilson, and others, twenty-seven in number, killed. Will send particulars in a few minutes. Donald McLean.

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. Stafford. Napier, llth November, 1868. Forwarded telegram two hours ago to Colonel Haultain, reporting attack of Hauhau prisoners on Poverty Bay. Major Biggs and twenty seven Europeans and nine Natives killed. Please read telegram addressed to Haultain, if he has not left for AVanganui. Send me reply. Donald McLean.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, llth November, 1868, 6.6 p.m. Report from Poverty Bay confirmed. Place attacked at 3 a.m. on Tuesday last. Killed Major Biggs, wife, child, and woman servant; Capt. AVilson, wife, family, and man servant; Goldsmith's daughter and son ; Welch, wife and child ; Dod and Peppard, Cadell ; 27 to 30 known to be killed and 9 natives. Donald McLean.

Mr. Stafford to Mr. D. McLean. (Urgent j llth November, 1868. Have got your telegrams. Haultain is gone to Wanganui. Am consulting with Richmond and Hall. Will telegraph shortly. How many European men are at Turanganui? Is anything known of Westrup? AVhere is " St. Kilda ?" Are any Tuparoas gone home, if not, where are they ? E. W. Stafford.

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. Stafford. Napier, llth November, 1868, 9 4 a.m. Thirty Europeans at Turanganui. Stockade crowded with refugee women and children. Nothing is known of Westrup. " St. Kilda" at Poverty Bay. Tuparoa still at Wairoa. Tuko is here ready to take command at Poverty Bay. Henare Potae at Turanganui stockade with 100 Maoris. Donald McLean.

Mr. Stafford to Mr. D. McLean. Wellington, 11 th November, 1868. Send first steamer that can be got to Poverty Bay. Send Tuke. Enrol any force necessary to relieve settlers there. Steamer should remove women and children from Poverty Bay. Government cannot un-

OF MR. McLEAN on the east coast.

25

A.—No. 4a,

dertake to bold Poverty Bay, but will not hastily withdraw if it can be avoided. AVomen and children should be removed from Wairoa. E. W. Stafford. Mr. D. McLean to Mr. Stafford. Napier, llth November, 1868, 10.36 p.m. AVill send first steamer and take steps communicated by you. Donald McLean.

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. Stafford. Napier, November 12, 1868. Archdeacon \A tilliams reports thirty Europeans, men, women and children, murdered, ten houses burnt, twenty Friendly Natives killed. Lieut. Gascoigne has taken charge of Europeans at Stockade ; can hold his own for the present. Henare Potae is calling for reinforcements. I am doing what I can to send men, but cannot denude other points which are exposed, such as the AVairoa and outlying districts of Hawke's Bay. The Chiefs here object to part with their followers, but I have secured fifty to go down for a short time to Tauranga. I want to send ammunition to Morgan, at AVaiapu, and letters to the Chiefs of the East Cape. I would strongly recommend that Mr. Campbell should go down at once, as Resident Magistrate and Agent, to keep the Chiefs in countenance and report to the Government. I wait approval of this course, and will immediately despatch a steamer. How are destitute women and children to be provided for? Donald McLean.

Mr. J. C. Richmond to Mr. D. McLean. AA rellington, 12th November, 1868. Men not to be had in AVellington. You must divide your European Force between Wairoa and Turanga, and make up to 200 at each place with Natives. If that will not make those points secure we must retire from Turanga for the present, and concentrate at Wairoa. I have telegraphed Campbell to proceed Waiapu. Ration destitute women for a week. Men drawing pay must provide out of pay for families' rations. J. C. Richmond.

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. J. C. Richmond. Napier, 13th November. 1868, 2.56 p.m. I believe the party of murderers only numbered twenty-five ; a large party were a few miles in the rear of Patutahi; supposed by Gascoigne to be entrenching themselves. "Will attend conference. Donald McLean.

Copy of Conference with Ministry and Mr. D. McLean. Napier, 13th November, 1868. Mr. Richmond.—'Where is Patutahi ? Mr. McLean.—Two or three miles inland of scene of late massacre—Biggs' place. Mr. Richmond.—ls enemy still there ? Mr. McLean.—Yes. Mr. Richmond.—What is position and force of main body of enemy ? Mr. McLean.—With late reinforcement, said to be over 600. Not all at Patutahi ; supposed to be divided in marauding parties. Mr. Richmond.—Of whom are they thought to consist? Mr. McLean.—Original prisoners, Upper Wairoas, Ureweras, and straggling parties from other tribes. Mr. Richmond.—AVhat at Wairoa? Mr. McLean.—No news yet. St. Kilda expected to-night. Puketapu pa supposed to have a strong force, a large party having come to Marumaru ; fired a volley and retreated to Puketapu. This latter is Maori report, overland, and not reliable. Mr. Richmond. —What force of Europeans, and what of reliable natives at Turanga ? Mr. McLean.—At present, refugee settlers : 50 in redoubt, 100 of Potae's men, seventy Karaitiana's, natives from here ; three good officers: AVestrup, Tuke, and Gascoigne. Mr. Richmond.—AVhat is our force at AVairoa? Mr. McLean.—lsB Ngatiporou, about 100 Europeans, 100 natives of AVairoa, exclusive of Ihaka. Mohaka settlers coming in. Mr. Richmond.—Are Ihaka's men still there? Mr. McLean.—l cannot say ; I heard he was making for Poverty Bay, with some of his followers. If so, his main force will go to protect respective settlements; only eighty of them armed. Mr. Richmond —-How many days' stores at each place ? Mr. McLean.—l arranged with Capt. Read to ration forces at Turanganui at Is 3d each per diem ; no lack of stores there. Wairoa, say four days'. Mr. Richmond—Could any, and what, A'olunteers be bad in Napier for a short term in the field? Mr. McLean.—Not more than twenty ; busy time of the year; asking more pay than present rates for short service ; to take the field 200 good men required. Mr. Richmond.—Do you mean beyond present numbers? Mr. McLean.—A'es. Mr. Richmond.—Or for a short time as garrisons at Turanga and Wairoa? Mr. McLean.— I mean for attack and regularly taking field ; combined movement with Arawa from Bay of Plenty. 7

A.—No. 4a

26

TELEGRAMS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY

Mr. Richmond—Could more volunteers than twenty be got for garrison duty? Mr McLean. —Yes, probably fifty. Mr. Richmond.—How many more reliable Natives could you get, and how soon ? Air McLean.—Between 100 and 200 ; more could be got, but fear of attack on our own Settlements would check them. I mean actual service men. Mr. Richmond.—ls Lambert still at AVairoa? Mr. McLean.—Yes; I want to move him up here, and send Tuke there. Mr. Richmond.—AVould Natives undertake a campaign alone ? Mr. McLean. — l'es, willingly. Mr. Richmond.—Would they prefer a small European party, or none with them ? Mr. McLean. —At pa attack a few dashing Europeans; other field work better alone; much depends on nature of service and officers sent with them. Mr. Richmond.—Can you give more details of massacre? Name some Natives killed ? Did enemy get guns, ammunition and food ? Mr. McLean.—Telegram of yesterday to Stafford gives details. I hear from refugees that number of Europeans killed is forty-three ; some of these may be missing. No native name, except Piripi Taka Taka. Archdeacon AVilliams says about twenty Natives killed ; all met by Hauhaus slain ; narrow escapes of women and children, barefooted aud in night clothes. Westrup, Johnston, and party of twenty escaped to Wliangawehi through bush ; taken up yesterday by " Ahuriri" to stockade at Turanga. Biggs shot while loading rifle : said to wife—" lam killed ; fly to flax bushes." She died by his side with infant. Mr. Richmond.—-Did enemy get guns, ammunition, and food ? Mr. McLean.—Took everything at houses burnt by them. Ido not suppose each settler had more arms than one and complement of ammunition. Drays were seen taking away goods, Mr. Richmond.—-How many good men could be drawn from first-class Militia in Hawke's Bay ? Mr. McLean. —Aery few, if any, for service out of respective districts. Mr. Richmond.—l fear not many men to be got from other settlements. Have you any proposal to make ? Reply deliberately to-morrow morning. Mr. McLean.—Will do so. Anything more to-night?

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. J. C. Richmond. November, 14th, 1868. The force of the enemy at Puketapu and Poverty Bay cannot be under 500 men. I propose an attack from the AVairoa in rear of his positions, and simultaneous movement from Poverty Bay in front. A force of 200 Europeans, well selected, is required to co-operate with the Natives. This done, the Arawa and force fiom Bay of Plenty should be prepared for a combined movement with Ngatiporou and friendly tribes from this Coast on all positions held by enemy in the interior. Tbe mixed forces should, to render the natives efficient, be placed under Major Fraser. Preparations for an attack on enemy should be commenced at once. The Ngatiporou cannot be held inactive much longer. In a letter to-day from Wairoa, Hotene desires to go back, and expresses fear about treacherous murders on the East Coast. If Government send authority I can raise at Auckland Diggings a good class of men for service by employing Inspector Scully to recruit, as he did the men who served on the East Coast before. The enemy should not be allowed more time to get reinforcements and entrench himself. It is better to do the work at once, and do it well, than to delay operations until a more general nsiDg, which will destroy more of our settlements, and cause suppression of insurgents more difficult and expensive, f will attend conference, and supply details at any time you fix. Donald McLean.

Mr. J. C. Richmond to Mr. D. McLean. AVellington, 14th November, 1868. Shall do my best to expedite movements. Agents busy enlisting North and South, only men of good character and eligible otherwise. Have written to you by " Wellington" to-day, and forwarded your ideas about the command to Wanganui. Agree generally in your plan of converging operations. Will want some little time to concert. Care of refugee women under consideration. No more to-night. J. C. Richmond. Mr. D. McLean to Mr. J. C. Richmond. Napier, 16th November, 1808, 9 a.m. Hauhaus 500 strong, under Kooti, Waru, PairaToki; \A restrup's force, all told, 280. Friendly Natives who went over to enemy since shot by them. 500 required to take the field at Turanga, and 200 for garrison. Reinforcements urgently wanted. I would strongly urge that the 18th at Auckland garrison, should be moved at once to Wairoa and Poverty Bay. This done promptly, the field would be taken with spirit by Friendlies. Poverty good plaie for fighting. The present is a time for immediate action. The Assembly has applied for the troops. Colony has a right to expect their services. Do urge this on at once to avert more fearful catastrophes. Donald McLean.

Mr. J. C. Richmond to Mr. D. McLean. Wellington, 16th November, 1868. I have sent you word of movements in Waikato. "Rosario" now at Tauranga. I am enlisting eveiy where as many good men as I can. Did Paratene and the rest join the Hauhaus willingly, or were they taken ? J. C. Richmond.

OF MR. McLEAN ON THE EAST COAST.

27

A.—No. 4a.

Mr. J. C. Richmond to Mr. D. McLean. Bdgs., 16th November, 1868. Cooper has sent " Ahuriri's " news. Says Heretaonga natives wish to attack Kooti. We think this may be done as follows, but as you ask for more men, we do not urge. Leave a garrison of 100 at Wairoa,, withdrawing from upper township. Send all available men to Turanga at once. "Ahuriri" maybe engaged to aid " St. Kilda." Men should land all together, and by night, that no notice be given to enemy to shift attack to AVairoa. All should be done quietly and quickly. Although we are recruiting everywhere, it may be some time before force can be much increased; and the Turanga plain is a good field, whilst delay is dangerous. J. C. Richmond.

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. J. C. Richmond. Napier, 16 th November, 1868. I am anxious to have a move offensive at Turanga, just to employ enemy, but feel Westrup is too weak for general attack. Feeling of Chiefs here good. Will send steamer on to-night with 15,000 rounds ammunition, forty stand arms, and the twenty-two men you sent up. Will telegraph again to-night if anything occurs. Heuheu falls into the general plan suggsstod in a former telegram. I agree with Westrup's estimate of force required. What do you say about regulars ? The Wairoa is chief difficulty just now. Donald McLean.

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. J. C. Richmond. Napier, November 17th, 1868. I propose moving Ngatiporou on from Wairoa, and 150 natives from here to Poverty Bay, but find that a large section of the Wairoa natives would join Hauhaus. The best plan now is to get more of tbe Ngatiporou ; and " Ahuriri" is ready for the service at £40 a day. Hamlin will collect Natives. Should like to disconcert Kooti's plans before he retires to Puketapu. Mohaka Natives and Europeans holding out well. Former have only thirty rifles. Kooti has burnt rifles taken from Friendlies—those used at WaireDgahika. AVhen you estimate relative strength of force, you will see Ngatiporou arrived. Westrup promises well. D. McLean.

Mr. C. E. Haughton to Mr. D. McLban. Bdgs., 18th November, 1868. Mr. Richmond approves employment of additional Ngatiporou, mentioned in your telegram of yesterday. C. E. Haughton.

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. J. Hall. Napier, 18th November, 1868, 3.41 p.m. Can I delay " Ashley," now in sight, for two hours after appointed time for sailing to enable me to write to the Government. My time is so occupied that I have not yet done so. Napier Natives going to front in good spirits. I wish we had troops and Snider rifles. D. McLean.

Mr. J. C. Richmond to Mr. D. McLean. Wellington, 18th November, 1868. Your Telegram about " Ashley" received. Detain her if you must, but not if avoidable. We are sending to Melbourne for two hundred men and Snider rifles. J. C. Richmond.

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. J. C. Richmond. Napier, 18th November, 1868. About 200 Napier Natives volunteer for Poverty Bay. I send " St. Kilda" with them, very short of arms. None in store after giving out seventy to-day. Send some by first steamer. No news from Wairoa. Donald McLean. Mr. D. McLean to J. C. Richmond. Napier, 19th November, 1868. Enemy by last accounts eight miles from Turanga. Party under Capt. Tuke proceeded to scene of murders ; found Mrs. Wilson. A party to go out following day to bury dead. Think of sending Tuparoas from AA Tairoa to Poverty Bay. What do you think ? Donald McLean.

TELEGRAMS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY

28

A.—No. 4a,

Mr. J. C. Richmond to Mr. D. McLean. AVellington, 19th November, 1868. I think Tuparoas should go at once. If they will go overland so much the better. Notice being gnren to Poverty Bay of the time of starting and probable time of arriving, so that they may co-operate. Keep an eye on any possible attempt to slip by our men by Titiokura to Hawke's Bay settlements. J. C. Richmond.

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. J. C. Richmond. Napier, 20th November, 1868, 12.7 p.m. " St. Kilda" not yet back from Poverty Bay. Wrote to Tuparoas overland to be prepared to march or go by sea when news of enemy being still at Turanga is confirmed. Native letter from Mohaka states Te Waru's tactics are to attack weak places. lam meeting deputations of outsettlers ; can I say timber will be provided by General Government for Stockades. Donald McLean.

Mr. J. C. Richmond to Mr. D. McLean. Government Buildings, 21st November, 1868, 1.42 p.m. Government will give not exceeding Fifty Pounds worth of Timber for each Blockhouse you may approve, the Settlers finding labour. These places ought to be impregnable ; either a Blockhouse within an earthen Redoubt, or placed as a Flanking Tower to a Redoubt. Insist on efficient houses and provision for water. J. C. Richmond.

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. J. C. Richmond. Napier, 21st November, 1868, 3 p.m. " St; Kilda " proceeds to AVairoa. Tuparoa to take enemy in rear. Weber takes charge of patrols on roads on which enemy likely to enter Province. Settlers coining forward well to assist building Stockades and keeping up communication. Received telegram about Stockades. AVeber will be instructed accordingly. Donald McLean.

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. J. C. Richmond. Napier, 22nd November, 1868. 10 a.m. When can a European Force be expected ? Anything done about the Regulars ? I would urge immediate action. A check to the Hauhaus here would greatly influence Waikato. Donald McLean.

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. J. C. Richmond. Napier, 23rd November, 1868. The expedition from the Wairoa to attack from that side and co-operate with tbe force marching against the enemy from Poverty Bay has proved abortive through Major Lambert, who directed Mr. Hamlin not to interfere with the Wairoa Friendly Natives that wished to accompany the Tuparoas, who did not feel strong enough without support to undertake expedition overland. Major Lambert does not consider he is bound to obey my instructions. If important combined movements are to be defeated in this manner, disasters must follow. The native forces, on whom we at present rely, and who are well disposed, will not act, and I trust the Government will see the necessity of putting an end to this state of things, and cause Major Lambert to obey my instructions, and not impede the public service any longer. Donald McLean.

Mr. J. C. Richmond to Mr. D. McLean. Wellington, 23rd November, 1868. Yours about abortive movement received. AVill take matter into immediate consideration. Did you send on my Telegram about movement to Lambert? Any orders from a distance subject to some discretion of Officers on spot. If Lambert did not feel safe in reducing his numbers, the fault is in our redoubts, which are not strong enough. Do not let this continue. Houses must take their chance. There should be no need of a garrison of 200 men anywhere, with large force in field close by. J. C. Richmond.

Mr. J. C. Richmond to Mr. D. McLean. Bdgs., 23rd November, 1868. Major Lambert to despatch every available man to intercept Kooti, keeping enough only to garrison redoubt. One hundred men are the utmost that need be retained there in the absence of the Tuparoa and others. No consideration of houses or property to interfere with movement. Stores to be secured within redoubt. House there to be completed. Steamer to keep up constant communications between Wairoa and Turanga. I hope Westrup is on his guard against a trap. Send copy of this to Lambert. J. C. Richmond.

Mr. J. C. Richmond to Mr. D. McLean. Bdgs., 23rd November, 1868. If necessary to protect North Frontier have videttes posted at Titiokura, or mounted scouts travelling that part of the country in case Kooti or Waru should pass inland of all our force, to ride on quickly and give notice. You can judge best of necessity. J. C. Richmond.

OF MR. McLEAN ON THE EAST COAST

A.—No. 4a

29

Mr. J. C. Richmond to Mr. D. McLean. AVellington, 23rd November, 1868, 12.50 p.m. Letters from Upper Wanganui call for redoubled vigilance. Every country Settler should know his post in case of alarm. Make redoubts on frontier tenable at once, and finish afterwards. No authority needed to move Provincial Magazine. If townspeople require guard in Napier must serve gratuitously or pay for it themselves. Political importance of this great. Napier is a natural fortress. Every penny required for essential services. Troops cannot be removed from Auckland just now. Commander forbidden to garrison places like Wairoa and Turanga. Every exertion making to enlist good Men. We must make redoubts stronger at once. Issue orders. They absorb too many men. The protection of houses must be a secondary thing. Stores and Property to be brought within or under cover of redoubts AVhat is amiss with " St. Kilda " ? if important send her up at once. J. C. Richmond.

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. J. C. Richmond. Napier, 23rd November, 1808. AVili. take steps respecting Northern frontier, Titiokura, but have no men arid cannot get them here. I will do my best, but expect men to be sent here without delay. Every available Maori is at the Front, and I am helpless for outpost duty. Donald McLean.

Air. D. McLuan to Mr. J. C. Richmond. Napier, 23rd November, 1868, 6.30 p.m. I found it necessary to take action and send steamer to AVairoa before your telegram came. I ordered AVairoa friendlies to concentrate in one pa the rest available to take field with Tuparoas. Tbe course I have taken is in accord with your Telegram. Some particulars of the state of Whanganui and other places would be important to guide in steps to be taken for safety of women and children in outlying districts. Your Telegram does not settle the point about instructions to Officers—the wire may be down. I may be at Poniko away from it and it I cannot instruct Officers at a time like the present, it is tieing my hands and neutralizing efforts and co-operation which I am cordially affording for the public safety. Donald McLean.

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. J. C. Richmond. Napier, 24th November, 1868. Where are the.men being enrolled, and when are we to have them ? 200 for this place could have been in the field by this time, if authority had been sent to enrol them, Can no advantage be taken of offer of Thames diggers, who seem anxious to revenge Poverty Bay massacre ? Donald McLean.

Mr. J. C. Richmond to Mr. D. McLean. Wellington, 24th November, IS6B. You could not enrol a man more than we are enrolling. We have officers everywhere, and every part of this island is equally open to attack. AVill let you know this evening the earliest day more can be sent. You are at liberty enrol at Hawke's Bay. Depend upon it the people in every District have to make sacrifices, and prepare to defend their own neighbourhood. It is said 1500 men are in arms at Tokangamutu. Pollen dare not send force away. J. C. Richmond.

Mr. J. C. Richmond to Mr. D. McLean. Wellington, 25th November, 1808. Accept Mr. Twogood's services as proposed. Put me down £10 to Relief Fund. We have only about fifty men as yet enrolled. Waiting for steamer unless Pollen has some. Have written urgently to him. Haultain returns to-day or to-morrow. AVill endeavour to get some men from the West Coast. Cannot promise. J, C. Richmond.

Air. D. McLean to Mr. J. C. Richmond. Napier, 25th November, 1868. Expedition Tuparoas and Wairoas, in all 300 strong, started yesterday to co-operate with force from Poverty Bay. Sent " Ahuriri "to Poverty Bay to give notice of movement. " St. Kilda "to Wairoa and Mohaka with provisions for the latter place in case of being confined to pa. Notice from Taupo that Mohaka and AVairoa are named as points of attack. Small cutter from Tauranga, all well there ; one officer of " Rosario "on board, who has come to telegraph to H.M.S. Blanche, due at AVellington. This place quiet; people took their stations well on an alarm last Saturday night. Ammunition being served out to Militia. What decision about helpless refugees? Donald McLean.

Mr. C. E. Haughton to Major Lambert. Wellington, 25th November, 1868. Your telegrams as to movements at AVairoa received. Government will take steps to prevent misunderstanding, meanwhile you are to co-operate cordially in plans of Government, of which Mr. McLean is cognizant. Keep up Clyde garrison to 100 effectives; perfect defensive works; get stores, water, fuel, 8

A.—No, 4a

30

TELEGRAMS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY

ammunition, &c, within. In case of being beleaguered, cook several days' food at once, so as to economise fuel. C. E. Haughton, Acting Under Secretary. Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 27th November, 1808, 8.35 a.m. Eight kegs of ammunition captured by mounted party of the enemy from Escort, eight miles from Poverty Bay. Communication with main body Native Contingent cut off. Not a man to spare from Turanganui for Escort. European force required as quickly as possible. Constabulary detachment of twenty-tffo arrived without revolvers or side arms ; half of them never fired a shot. Massacre at Poverty Bay on 10th and no European force except this twenty-two yet sent. Two hundred men could readily have been got after massacre to take the field if enrolled at diggings. Fifty pack saddles wanted. Surgical instruments urgently required. Is Blanche coming ? If this East Coast campaign is followed up vigorously it will save AVaikato and other places. Has Lady Bird sailed with volunteers and gun? I trust speed will be used to afford succour to the Native Contingent cut off for want of force to open communication and supply ammunition. Donald AlcLean.

Colonel Haultain to Mr. D. McLean. Wellington, 28th November, 1868. Colonel Whitmore, with 350 of bis most efficient men, has been ordered round to Poverty Bay, to take command of both Districts. Steamer sailed last night for Wanganui to bring them. Forty men enrolled at Christchurch, and expected to-morrow by Rob Roy, will be sent on by that vessel. You must have 1200 men on pay already. lam astonished at your complaining that the Government are not using every effort to assist you. Other parts of the Colony are neglected to secure Hawke's Bay and the Eastern settlements. T. M. Haultain.

Air. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. , Napier, 28th November, 1808. If Colonl Whitmore is sent you will lose the valuable aid and co-operation of all the Native allies, a matter of no trifling importance in the present state of the Colony. I would prefer having half the number of men you propose under Alajors Fraser and Westrup. You may rest assured that the interests of the Colony would be better served by such a course as this, and this is my firm conviction on nothing but public grounds. I am not complaining of the want of assistance generally, but of the necessity for a European force that will not only assist but inspire the natives to carry the fighting to other parts of the island if necessary. This they will not do under Whitmore, and the Colony will lose the services of upwards of 1500 Natives. Donald McLean.

Colonel Haultain to Air. D. McLean. Wellington, 28th November, 1808. Instructions have already gone to Colonel AVhitmore, and he will go direct from Wanganui. The Government have no doubt of his working well with the Natives if you will co-operate energetically with him. T. M, Haultain.

Mr. D. .McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 28th November, 1808. I consider it my duty to stale that the public service will in my opinion be more benefitted by leaving Colonel Whitmore and bis 350 men at AVanganui than by sending them to Poverty Bay, at the risk of upsetting operations now in progress. AVith the men in Rob Roy I trust that 100 additional good men will be sufficient to meet present emergencies. Donald McLean.

Mr. McLean to Colonel llaulta in. Napier, 28th November, 5.55 p.m. The prejudice of tbe whole of the Natives from East Cape to Napier is so strong against Colonel Wbitmore that the most energetic co-operation on my part will not remove it. A deep-rooted prejudice of this nature amounting to superstitious belief cannot be overcome in a day. His coining to Poverty Bay would, I much fear, bo the prelude to a long and disastrous war, which can soon be ended if present arrangements already so far successful are not obstructed. Donald McLean.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 28tb November, 1868, 9.9 a m. Communication being cut off with front at Poverty Bay, I propose despatching St. Kilda to Wairoa with orders to Lambert to forward supplies to Native Contingent from his side, which must yet be open ; otherwise our men will be without supplies. Shall 1 apply for more of the Ngatiporou from East Cape ? Donald McLean.

Colonel Haultain to Mr. D. McLean. Bdgs., 28th November, 1808. If communications are cut off with Front at Poverty Bay, the advanced party must fall back till Whit more

OF MR. McLEAN ON THE EAST COAST.

31

A—No. 4a.

arrives. Westrup should have left parties to protect the road behind him, Ido not think you will now require more Ngatiporous, as there wiil be so large a reinforcement of Europeans. T. M. Haultain.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 28th November, 1868, 4.30 p.m. Westrup will be instructed as you propose to enable him to open his communication. 1 can send 50 or more Militia from here for four days or a week. The immediate presence of Europeans will have a good effect. D. McLean.

Colonel Haultain to Air. D. McLean. Wellington, 28th November, 1868. You can send the fifty militiamen if you think it very desirable and you have a steamer available, but fiftytwo men are going by "Rob Roy "on Monday. Fifty Natives may be employed at Wairoa as you propose. Accept tenders for coal. I shall be very glad to get the plan. T. M. Haultain.

Colonel Haultain to Mr. D. McLean. AVellington, 28th November, 1868. My impression is that Westrup should if possible maintain his present advanced position by entrenching himself, but sending back sufficient number of men along the line of road to keep his communication open. He had better stand on the defensive till Whitmore arrives, when the force will be in a good position to attack at once. T. M. Haultain.

Colonel Whitmore to Mr. D. McLean. Wellington, 3rd December, 1868. I have urged the Government to send the largest portion of my force to Poverty Bay, and stand responsible for the result to them ; because I rely on your cordial co-operation. If you give it, or if you do as Dr. Featberston has done—urge your own friends amongst them to support and obey me—l feel no doubt of the Ngatiporou, and the Ahuriri names will do so without, so far as their courage goes, l'ouwill find me desirous to avail myself of your aid, and ready to acknowledge my obligation. G. S. Whitmore.

Air. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, sth December, 1868. Friendly Natives and few Europeans under Gascoigne have had a splendid victory over Hauhaus at Makaretu, killing fifty. Nama, principal murderer, killed, also Henare Pata Ngatihineuru prisoner. The enemy was making for Puketapu or Waikaremoana ; should be followed up now by combined movement of Arawas. I am sending supplies to Wairoa for movement from there. Two wounded on our side. Prisoners taken by Kooti escaped. Donald McLean,

Colonel Haultain to Mr. McLean. Wellington, sth December, 1868. Delighted to bear of the success and congratulate you. " Blanche" bad better go on to Poverty Bay as Richmond and Whitmore will be there, and she may be useful in bringing troops back to Wairoa if necessary. T. M. Haultain.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, sth December, 1868. Thanks for congratulations. I feel much gratified at what has been done, and expect to bear of further success as tbe Ngatiporou and Hawke's Bay Natives with Gascoigne were pursuing to Puketapu. I was on board " Blanche " when your telegram came. In a letter from Richmond he says he will go to AVairoa if he succeeds in arresting Whitmore's party en route, and requests me to send supplies there. lam doing so and have directed thirty horses of Eraser's men to be driven overland as quickly as possible, landing horses at Wairoa being uncertain. Richmond says —" I feel certain some of the Urewera and Want's men will retreat to AVaikaremoana and should be met and cut off by AVairoa." In this opinion I quite concur, Wairoa being the base of operations. Do you still think " Blanche " should go to Poverty Bay ? I shewed your telegram to Captain Montgomerie who is with me, and shall intimate your further wishes to him. The enemy should be followed with great speed, and if he could land some men at the Wairoa it would be a great help. " Sturt" will take force from Povertj Bay. Puketapu, Maungapowhatu, and Waikari will be enemy's retreat. Poverty Bay is safe with small lorce. I canuot despatch " Ahuriri" till evening owing to coaling and engines. Wind favourable for landing at Wairoa. We want arms badly. Donald McLean.

Colonel Haultain to Mr. D. McLean. (Urgent.) Wellington, sth December, 1808. You can judge better than we can here, but unless you know Whitmore is at Wairoa, would it not be better that " Blanche" should go to Poverty Bay to assist in the move ? Do as you think best in this matter. I hope Gascoigne will keep up the pursuit, and keep them engaged till Whitmore gets up, if he cannot defeat them himself. We have no arms here to send, as the supply we expected did not arrive from Auckland. For whom do you require them ? T. M. Haultain.

A —No. 4a,

32

TELEGRAMS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY

Colonel Whitmore to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 6th December, 1868. Arrived in forty-six hours in " Sturt" at Poverty Bay—three hours at Castle Point. Lady Bird arrived at 8 p.m. Starting this morning for front, where fighting continues. Richmond here. Great efforts among some to represent that Natives will not serve with me. Nothing yet to indicate this ;on contrary, Ahuriri natives had come back, and hearing fighting not over, and we were come up, have started again, and written to ask me to come. G. S. AVhitmore.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 7th December, 1868. News from Poverty Bay not so good. Pursuit of enemy abandoned for the present. Means should be adopted to follow up with the Arawa from Bay of Plenty, and avail of late successes to crush him effectually. The success of Friday by the Tuparoas is confirmed. Captan Tanner and Yeomanry Cavalry returned, their services being asked for one week only. They behaved well, and deserve special thanks. Donald McLean.

Colonel Haultain to Mr. D. McLean. December Bth, 1868. Your telegram received, also a report from Richmond, who will determine what further steps are to be taken, as he is on the spot and represents the, Government. Arawas could not possibly be brought to Maungapowhatu within a fortnight from this date. Great weight, however, is attached to your opinion by the Government. Captain Tanner will be thanked, also Native Chiefs. T. M. Haultain.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 12th December, 1868. Thanks for AVanganui telegram. I have just returned from a meeting attended by 700 or 800 Natives at Pawhakairo. Natives in good spirits. News from Taupo of the (itb ; all quiet. I gathered a good deal of Waikato intentions from an unexpected source to-day. AVill tell Richmond when I see him. I have advised him against raising Poverty Bay land question till the war is settled. Donald McLean.

Colonel Whitmore to Colonel Haultain. 14th December, 1868. " Sturt" leaves with Roberts and 100 men, one gun, some stores. Rumour last night Hauhaus still in position. " Ahuriri " not having arrived, send mounted party to reconnoitre under Newland. If rumour false, embark rest of force directly " Ahuriri " returns. Rumour largely disbelieved, but Henare Potae believes it; Ropata, Ihaka, and Hotene disbelieve it; Europeans divided. Nominal roll come down. Gascoigne, forty men, remain here in redoubt. Forty Militia on pay ; forty off pay. Ngatiporou very friendly to me. Have had no difficulties or troubles with any tribe. G. S. AVhitmore.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 18th December, 1868. 11.40 a.m. Twenty-eight Natives have been taken prisoners by a party of Friendly Natives who were sent out by Major Lambert with Mr. Worgan. Major Lambert asks authority to start an expedition in rear of the enemy, and proposes to move with 150 Natives and fifty Europeans leaving AVairoa comparatively safe by placing Militia and A Tolunteers on actual service. I wrote to Richmond some days ago about a move being made from the AVairoa, and I can send 200 Natives from here. The enemy by Native letter received is at AVestrup's old place, Hawke Nest. I think you know it. It is old Forest Rangers camp at Poverty Bay. I should like much if Lambert would remain at AVairoa, and send the Native expedition with men who know the country and the Natives. Burton, Surveyor, and Worgan would work well with the Natives. It is several days since we heard from Poverty Bay. I consider proposed movement by Lambert should be taken at once to be of any good. I can send Natives from here in " Star of tbe South" expected to-day. AVhat do you wish to do with prisoners ? D. McLean.

(Urgent.) Colonel Haultain to Mr. D. McLean Wellington, 18th December, 1868. The Government are unwilling to order any movement from Wairoa which might interfere with Mr. Richmond's arrangements at Poverty Bay. They have left it to him entirely to manage matters with your co-operation, and do not think it desirable to send down to AVairoa any more of the Napier Natives, but fresh information may be received from Poverty Bay at any moment which might render it proper to do so. Major Lambert should communicate whenever he has the opportunity with Colonel Whitmore who commands the whole District. The prisoners should be brought to Napier, and the men detained in the. jail for the present, and the women and children put in charge of any Friendly Natives who will be responsible for them. T. M. Haultain.

OE MR. McLEAN ON THE EAST COAST.

33

A—No. 4a.

Mr. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, December 19, 1868, 11.20 a.m. The Chiefs of the Wairoa and Hawke's Bay are anxious to follow up the enemy from this side, and will give their services cheerfully now. In a week's time wheat harvest commences, and they cannot afford to be absent. Mr. Richmond has not replied to my proposal to move from AVairoa, and appears from his letter to be preparing by making road to get up supplies to invest the Puketapu. This is of course most desirable, if it is ceitain the enemy will take up a position there. My impression is that the enemy is in scattered detachments in the bush. A few days' following up now would be of great importance, and I submit that this should be done at once. If delayed even till reference is made to Poverty Bay, the opportunity will be lost by inflicting a blow on the enemy, and the Friendly Natives may not again be disposed to act with such spirit. Following up late successes is what is now required. Henere Tomoarau and 130 Natives are here, and ready to start at once. Renata and Tareha are also ready with their Contingent. They will be disappointed if services are not accepted. Donald McLean.

Colonel Haultain to Mr. D. McLean. Wellington, 19th December, 1868. Send Natives from Napier to W Tairoa to follow up the enemy as you proposed. Richmond has sent Ihaka Wanga from Poverty Bay to Wairoa also. Letter from Governor will be sent Karaitiana. T. M. Haultain.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 23rd December, 1868. I returned last night from tbe Wairoa having seen all the leading Chiefs and arranged that an expedition of about 500 strong, all Natives, should follow up the enemy and avail of fine weather to do so. The natives are very zealous and willing and propose to start to-day or to-morrow—They may intercept 200 Urewera who propose to join Kooti by Upper Wairoa, and scour the country of marauding parties. Donald Mc Lean.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, Ist January, 1869, 10 a.m. A native letter from Mohaka dated yesterday states that the Expedition from Wairoa took 19 prisoners at Orewa and were marching to Kooti's stronghold at Puketapu, prisoners captured said that Te Waru left for AVaikato with Paora Toki, and Kooti was at Tapatahi—Waru's Hauhaus have taken to the Bush— give the above as I received it from the Chief of Afohaka, who has sent 80 of his men to the front. Donald McLean.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 2nd January, 1869, 4.5 p.m. I hear the AVairoa expedition is returning having reached the Puketapu—l will send " St. Kilda " as no other arrangement has been made—Thanks for news from Wanganui,—you are fortunate in having Lyon—ls General Chute in the Country ? Will you approve £50 expenditure for reaping wheat of Natives engaged on expedition ? Donald McLean.

Colonel Haultain to Mr. McLean. Wellington, 2nd January, 1869. General Chute is not in New Zealand nor is he likely to come over. I cannot approve any payment to Natives in addition to the very high pay they are receiving, but £50 can be advanced to be deducted from their pay if necessary. When will the " St. Kilda" sail for Wairoa ? T. M. Haultain.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 4th January, 1869, 8.42 a.m. The " Ahuriri" left at 11 p.m. last night with ammunition and other articles written for by Mr. Richmond. Every expedition was used to send her back, but it could not be done with the heavy sea till the tide answered. I delayed the " St. Kilda," as she could not land boats at the AVairoa, and would only waste coal by laying off and on there. She will start to-day, as the weather has moderated. The chiefs of the Wairoa expedition say that they have burnt the enemy's pas, reconnoitred his country, where large potato cultivations were found, took a few prisoners, and failing to meet enemy returned to Wairoa, and are prepared for any other service, only they are anxious about their crops. Donald McLean.

Lieut.-Colonel Lambert to Colonel Haultain. Napier, sth January, 1869, 1.29 p.m. My thanks for removing grievance No. 1, and No. 2 will right itself. The Native Expedition has collapsed as you know. I left Wairoa yesterday as there appeared nothing to be done. Too late to assist Whitmore. I left Sub-Inspector Tuke in charge. He is only a Subaltern in his corps. lam ready to proceed with the Court of Enquiry at once. If not prepared, I will ask you to allow me to proceed to the Southern part of the Province on very pressing private affairs for a few days. I shall be ready at the shortest notice to proceed to any place where the Government may require my services. I was surprised at Mr. Tuke being 9

TELEGRAMS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY

A.—No. 4a

34

sent to Wairoa after my letter, which you will see dated 7th or Bth November. He i 3 not disciplined, and would do better to be with his Corps for a time. Things appear all out of order here. I believe the Officer at Napier could command Wairoa if there was an intelligent Officer there. I will write to you more fully by first mail. C. Lambert.

Captain Withebs to Colonel Haultain. Napier, sth January, 1809, 1.53 p.m. The Native Contingent expected to return from Wairoa this day—they will expect to be paid. I have no money, having paid back on the last of the month the whole of the surplus cash in my possession amounting to £1,400. Shall require at least £2,200 as they have been on two expeditions since last paid. About 310 men on each expedition. E. AVithebs.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, sth January, 1869, 3.29 p.m. The " St. Kilda" is back with 200 of the Napier Natives. Henare Tomoana with his followers about 120, and Ihaka Whanga offer to go to Poverty Bay and are waiting for orders. I consider it would be most advisable to take up a position at the Puketapu or Pa Puni, and hold it to cut off any refugees from Ngatapa. Should the latter course be adopted the " St. Kilda" has time for the English mail and to go back to-night to the Wairoa. Donald McLean. Colonel Haultain to Mr. D. McLean. Wellington, sth January, 1869. Richmond and Whitmore must direct operations; if they wish for combinations they have steamers and can communicate with Wairoa. We cannot authorise any more expensive expeditions which may produce no result, and in all probability any move from Wairoa now would bo too late to intercept fugitives. The general opinion here is that there will be no mail this month. T. M. Haultain.

Napier, sth January, 1869. Received your Telegram about " St. Kilda"; would like to know what you propose: whether the Natives are to remain at Wairoa till instructions come from Poverty Bay, or take up a position inland of the Wairoa. In any case I should like to be able to write to them to-night by the " St. Kilda." She could afterwards go on to Wellington. Donald McLean.

Colonel Haultain to Mr. D. McLean. Wellington, sth January, 1869. " St. Kilda " had better bring back the remainder of the Napier Natives from Wairoa. They would certainly be too late to be of any use at Poverty Bay. T. M. Haultain.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 6th January, 1869, 1 p.m. "St. Kilda" left last night for the rest of the Napier Natives. The Chiefs who have returned state that they burnt and destroyed five of Te Kooti's pas and principal residences, including two large villages ; one on the road to Maungapohaka, where he had a large house for place of worship. Quantities of potatoes were dug up. Donald McLean.

Mr. D. McLean to Mr. J. C. Richmond. Napier, 16th February, 1869. A letter has been received from Ihaka Whanga stating that one of Tamihana's sons had come in to the Muriwai Pa, and stated that the Hauhaus propose to attack Opotiki, Wairoa, or Turanga. The letter cautions the people of Mohaka and AVairoa to be on their guard. Karipa is the Native who came in. Donald McLean.

Captain Withers to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 2nd Alareh, 1809, 1.11 p.m. Corporal Sullivan arrived from the Taupo district. Says that Rewi with 700 men from Waikato is to go in the direction of Poverty Bay some time this month or early in the next to join Te Kooti. E. Withers, Captain.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 2nd March, 1869, 2.51 p.m. Sullivan, a half-caste in Defence Force, has returned from Tewhaiti, Taupo, and states that Rewi proposes to join Te Kooti with 700 men. Matautaera talks of attacking Titiokura. Government natives at Taupo propose to fight, but are too few in number. An attack on this district is proposed by way of Patea and Ngaruroro Gorge. This, Sullivan says, is decided upon. Great sympathy expressed by some of the Taupo and other tribes for prisoners. Donald McLean.

OE MR. McLEAN ON THE EAST COAST.

35

A.—No. 4a,

Colonel Haultain to Mr. D. McLean. Bdgs., 3rd March, 1869, 11.15 p.m. Sullivan's reports are alarming, but, from all the information we have yet received, are very improbable, and require sifting and corroborating. The Himalaya left yesterday by order of the Commodore, so that we retain the 18th for the present. T. M. Haultain. Captain Fox to the Under Seceetaey foe Defence. Napier, 9th March, 1869. " St. Kilda " just arrived from East Coast with eighty-five Ngatiporou, with Ferris and Native Chief Robert. AVent as far as Opotiki. Te Kooti within twenty miles Otatara, on the Waimana River ; strength not known. Very bad weather all the time. Short of coals, and taking ten tons on board in the roadstead. Will proceed with all possible despatch as soon as coals are on board. George Fox, Commanding " St. Kilda."

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 9th March, 1809, 4.45 p.m. Ropata and some eighty Ngatiporou have called here in " St. Kilda," and Ropata wishes to know if I approve of his going to the West Coast, if not that be has no desire to go. I consider that removing Ropata while the East Coast is threatened is exceedingly injudicious, and likely to invite further disaster, and with the threats from Waikato I would suggest that tbe Government should reconsider the propriety of removing Ngatiporou and Ropata. Donald McLean.

Colonel Haultain to Mr. D. McLean. Wellington, 9th March, 1869. It is of great importance for several reasons, that Ropata and the Ngatiporou should go to the West Coast, and Government trust that you will use your influence to cause them to proceed without delay. T. M. Haultain.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 9th March, 1869, 8.34 p.m. Ropata has no desire to go further, I will speak to him in the morning about it. In the mean time I have asked the Master of the " St. Kilda" to remain till morning. Donald McLean.

Mr. D. McLean to Captain Fox. Napier, 9th March, 1869. I have not yet had a reply to a telegram sent to the Honorable the Defence Alinister, and if you have no instructions to the contrary I should wish you to delay till morning if no telegram comes in the meantime. Donald McLean.

Colonel Haultain to Mr. D. McLean. Wellington, 10th March, 1869. I am anxious to hear whether Ropata is coming on. The Government will be greatly disappointed if anything prevents this arrangement being carried out. T. M. Haultain.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 10th March, 1869, 11.15 a.m. Ropata is with me. He says he has no heart or inclination to go to the AVest Coast, the reason being that he leaves his own people unprotected, while the district is being threatened with danger; that his absence invites attack. I asked if he remained, whether his people would go ? He replies all should remain, and expresses dissatisfaction at the manner in which their services have been engaged. Donald McLean.

Mr. D. McLean to Captain Fox. Napier, 10th March, 1869. Ropats. has intimated to me his intention not to proceed to Wellington, and he wishes his men to be

landed here. Donald McLean. Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 10th March, 1869, 3.20 p.m. I have received no reply to telegram of this morning. Ropata pressing for reply, and throwing himself on me for advice. I could not in present state of the East Coast find it consistent with my view of my public duty to advise his going to West Coast, and have told him so. Donald McLean.

Lieut.-Colonel Lambeet to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 10th March, 1869, 4.16 p.m. Captain Fox has applied to me for instruction as to landing the Natives. Mr. AlcLean will not issue posi-

TELEGRAMS RELATIVE TO THE AGENCY

A.—No. 4 a,

36

tive orders. The Captain says they will not proceed without Ropata. Let me know what is to be done. The men have all been sworn in individually to serve for twelve months, and it was explained to them that they were soldiers. Lambeet.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, llth March, 1869. Ropata states that his guns have been kept on board the " St. Kilda," and complains of it. As the Ngatiporou may be required for service at any moment, I consider it would be most impolitic to retain their guns. Could you let the " St. Kilda" take an English mail on to Wellington to-morrow, and return again to take the Ngatiporou back ? It would be a great convenience to the public to get a mail sent. Donald McLean.

Colonel Haultain to Mr. D. McLean. AVellington, llth March, 1869. Ropata's guns will not be taken from him. The " St. Kilda" will not return to Napier for some time. She will go to West Coast. T. M. Haultain.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 12th March, 1869. Evening News of the 9th states Pitcairn's murder. Te Kooti at Opotiki ; place surrounded by hostile natives ; party of Arawas taken prisoners at Ohiwa. Paragraph states Colonel Harington communicated with Pollen ; mentioned Pitcairn's murder, but wants confirmation. " Tauranga" had taken arms and ammunition to Tauranga. Same paper has reports of murder at AVaikato, not confirmed. Donald McLean.

Colonel Haultain to Mr D. McLean. AVellington, 12th March, 1869. Your Telegram received. There are about 180 armed Europeans at Opotiki, besides a number of Friendly Natives, who are thoroughly committed on our side, and there is a Redoubt at the Township, besides two good Block Houses five or six miles in advance. T. M. Haultain.

Mr. D. McLean to Colonel Haultain. Napier, 10th March, 1869. Te Kooti is reported to be at Tauaroa, on the way to Taupo, about half a day's journey from the north end of Runanga, with a large force. It is uncertain whether he intends to join Rewi, or make for AVaikare Moana or Napier. Tbe natives of Taupo are much alarmed ; Pohipi will try to apprehend Te Kooti, but I fear he is not strong enough. Donald McLean.

Colonel Haultain to Mr. D. McLean. Wellington, 19th March, 1869. Te Kooti, having been driven back from AVhakatane with severe loss, and by a very small force, is not, I think, very likely to attack Napier unless largely reinforced. The Government have very favourable reports of the peaceful intentions of Rewi and the King. T. M. Haultain.

Lieut.-Colonel Lambeet to Mr. J. C. Richmond. Napier, llth March, 1869. Ropata here ; he appears to have made up his mind not to proceed. He says the Ahuriri Natives are to meet him at 11 o'clock on his way to Pakowai. Fox wants orders. The natives are determined to land. Lambeet.

Lieut.-Colonel Lambeet to Colonel Haultain. Napier, llth March, 1869. He wants to land his people, and " St. Kilda" take them back on her next trip up coast. Lambeet.

Colonel Haultain to Lieut.-Colonel Lambeet. AVellington, llth March, 1869. Tell the Ngatiporou that Tito Kowaru has retreated from the Waitotara towards the Patea, and that Whitmore is pursuing them. If they will come on they will be in time to assist in destroying these cannibals. T. M. Haultain.

OF MR. McLEAN ON THE EAST COAST.

37

A, —No. 4a

Lieut.-Colonel Lambeet to Mr. J. C Richmond. Napier, llth March, 1869. The Natives are here—they are divided, some are for Wellington, some to stay here. Ropata has been the cause of their landing. I have said that those who wish shall proceed to Wellington, those who remain here cease pay. Lambeet.

Colonel Haultain to Mr. Feeeis. Wellington, llth March, 1869. What agreement was made with Ropata and the Ngatiporou when they embarked ? T. M. Haultain.

Me. Feeeis to Colonel Haultain. Napier, llth March, 1869. The only agreement was for service at Patea—for which each man gave his consent —Ropata to time of arrival here was anxious to go and in great spirits. Ferris.

Colonel Haultain to Lieut-.Colonel Lambeet. Wellington, llth March, 1869. Does Ropata wish to go back in the "St Kilda" —if so he must not delay. T. M. Haultain.

Colonel Haultain to Lieut.-Colonel Lambert. Wellington, llth March, 1869. Ido not see any probability of an early return of the " St. Kilda" to the East Coast. She can wait for Ropata till to-morrow evening. T. M. Haultain.