FURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO MILITARY OPERATIONS AGAINST THE REBEL NATIVES.

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1869 Session I, A-03c

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FURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO MILITARY OPERATIONS AGAINST THE REBEL NATIVES.

(Eeturn to an Order of the Bouse of Bepresentatives, of 17th June, 1860.) That there be laid upon the Table of this House—" Copies of all Papers and Correspondence relating to,the Military Operations at Mohaka, Hawke's Bay, in April last." (Major Heaphj, V.C.)

WELLINGTON.

1809.

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RELATIVE TO MILITARY OPERATIONS AGAINST REBEL NATIVES. No. 1. Lieut.-Colonel Lambeet to Hon. Colonel Haultaix. (Telegram No. 112.) Napier, 3 a.m., 11th April, 1869. We have had bad news: that Mohaka has been attacked, and that two Native children and an old man have been killed. This I have no doubt of, and shall move the mounted Armed Constabulary and every man of Militia and Volunteers to the scene. More by-and-by. To Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Lambeet.

No. 2. Hon. H. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultaitt. (Telegram No. 115.) Napier, 3.30 a.m., 11th April, 1569. Lambert has sent telegram about Mohaka attack. About 7 o'clock last night Mr. Davis came in from Petane, reporting that a man had arrived there with accounts that Hauhaus had attacked Mohaka yesterday morning. Ho went back at once to Petane, with instructions to send in trooper with further news as soon as any arrived. About 10 o'clock the Mohaka settler Stark came in, and gave an account of what had happened up to the time he left. His story was, that about 5 o'clock a.m. he heard firing, and went on horseback across the river to the pa to see what was up. The Natives told him the Hauhaus were attacking them. Stark then hurried across to his house again, where a crippled man was in bed, but was fired at by three Hauhaus near his stockyard. He made his way to the beach, and met Mr. Hudson, who told him Sim, another settler, had gone up the river to bring off his family. Stark saw Herricks the carpenter and another launching a whaleboat, and then rode off for Napier, to give the alarm to settlers on the road. It was about 9 o'clock when ho left Mohaka, and saw a number of Native whares in flames. AH the settlers at Waikaro and other places along the line were preparing to escape into Napier. Stark says he saw a considerable number of Hauhaus on both sides of the river, firing at the pa, but at long distances ; up to the time he left he saw no one killed or wounded. Colonel Lambert at once, on hearing this news, set about making every preparation for sending a force. About 2 o'clock Hcrrick and Armstrong arrived in Napier, in a whaleboat, with other five men; they left about 11 o'clock yesterday. Their report confirms Stark's account of an attack, and they give these further particulars: —They heard the firing, and Armstrong went to the pa, where there were very few Natives, the greater number, under their best leader, having gone to join the Wairoa expedition. Armstrong saw about thirty men marching with a flag, in regular order, round a bush towards the pa. He then fled to the beach, and, with six others, launched a boat, and remained outside the surf for some hours. Although he only saw thirty, he believed the enemy to be in force, as they were firing volleys. No one appeared up to the time they loft except Mr. Hudson, who was mounted, on the Wairoa side of the river. Telegram sent to Waipukurau, ordering Richardson's troopers to march at once for Petane. The pilot has been despatched with the lifeboat to Mohaka, and ought to reach about 9 o'clock. Captain Towgood starts at 6 o'clock, the earliest mounted horses can be crossed, with an advanced party of mounted men, to be joined at Petane by about twenty mounted Militia. Town Militia and Volunteers ordered to parade at 7 o'clock, from which a force will be drawn to proceed at once up the coast. Nos. 3 and 9, country companies, will parade at twelve. Orderlies have been sent to warn officers of respective companies. You may depend on the most prompt action being taken without exciting unnecessary'alarm. Reports will be sent you as they come in. I have requested Lambert to give notice to the IS'atives as soon as possible. I have been hero since 3 o'clock, but the operators have been unable to get either Wellington or Waipukurau, although they have tried both places continually since then. To Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 3. Lieut.-Coloncl Lambert to the Hon. Colonel Haultaut. (Telegram No. 116.) Napier, 6.37 a.m., 11th April, 1869. I have directed the town Militia and Volunteers to parade with a view of moving a force to the front, and have ordered Richardson's mounted men to march on Petane ; they will I trust bo there on Monday. I have also directed the suburban companies to parade and await orders. Some of the Mohaka people think it is the ammunition they are striking for. To Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Lambeet.

No. 4: Hon. Colonel Haultain to Hon. H. R. Russell. (Telegram.) Wellington, 11.46 a.m., 11th April 1869. I hate got your telegrams. The measures taken are prompt and satisfactory, and all cavalry should push on as fast as possible ; but do not move Militia until you get further information. That already received is meagre, and I doubt whether the attacking party are in force. To 11. 11. Russell, Napier. T. M. Haulta^-.

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No. 5. Hon. H. R. Russell to the Hon. Colonel Haultain. 12.10 p.m., 11th April, 1869. No later news from Mohaka. Two town companies Militia, Napier Volunteers (Buchanan's), and Tanner's cavalry mustered on parade at half-past 10, and have just moved off to Petane. Lambert follows in person, leaving me in charge Militia Office. Richardson's A.C. marched from Waipukurau this morning, and will reach within ten miles of Petane to-night I hope; an excellent spirit prevails generally, and the appearance of the force as they passed through the town was quite imposing, preceded by a fine band, followed by Tanner's troop, and then by the Militia companies. To Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 6. Hon. Colonel Haultain to Hon. 11. R. Russell. AVellington, 11th April, 1869. Tile spirit of your Militia and Volunteers has been admirable, and the promptness with which they have moved most satisfactory and creditable to the commanders ; but it would be wrong to put the troops to unnecessary inconvenience, and it will bo useless moving the infantry on unless there is a probability of finding an enemy. I think that a dash has been made at the ammunition, and that the party will retire when they get it. The cavalry will soon learn if there is any enemy in front, and Lambert should hold his party in readiness to advance immediately on receipt of information. We have no steamer here, but expect the "St. Kilda" daily; but lam very anxious to get intelligence from Wairoa ; can you get any small vessel to go down there ? Are Russell's and Wallace's companies part of the 190 men? If Lambert hears that the enemy are making a stand, he must of course press on with all the force he can muster, European as well as Native. To H. R, Russell, Napier. T. M. Haultain.

No. 7. Lieut.-Colonel Lambeet to Hon. Colonel Haultaiit. Napier, 12.12 p.m., April 11th, 1869. I hate just moved off the force for Mohaka, and shall march to Petane, and halt for the night. Pushing on cavalry. Let me know what you wish. To Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Lambeet.

No. 8. Hon. Colonel Haultain to Hon. 11. R. Russell. (Telegram.) Government Buildings, 11th April, 1869. Let Lambert go on to Petane with his force, and I will come to office at 5 o'clock, if you will be there. The companies that paraded at 12 to be dismissed, and directed to hold themselves in readiness. To Hon. H. Russell, Napier. T. M. Haultain.

No. 9. Hon. Colonel Haultain to Lieut.-Colonel Lambeet. Wellington, 11th April, 1869. Tou should not march your infantry on from Petane, unless you have reason to suppose the enemy will make a stand. Your cavalry should soon ascertain this for you. I am afraid that the Hauhaus will retire immediately they have secured any ammunition that was at Mohaka. Your arrangements have been exceedingly good to have enabled you to march out on such short notice, and the spirit of your Militia and Volunteers has been admirable —this is real self-reliance. If you are near any buildings that would afford cover for your men, you should take advantage of them. T. M. Haultain. To Colonel Lambert, Napier (to be sent on to Petane).

No. 10. Hon. 11. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. Napier, 12.35 p.m., 11th April, 1869. It will not do to stop the Militia now they are all equipped with blankets, &c, and provisions left for Petane this morning. If Lambert hears at Petane that Militia are unnecessary, they can be sent back to-morrow. Lambert oif. We have been in the Militia Office since 11 last night, and have not been to bed. At half-past 2 a.m. Lambert despatched district orders to Captains of the Clive, Havelock. Puketapu, and Meanee Companies, desiring them to parade their men at 12 o'clock to-day, and hold them ready for immediate service. At 9 a.m. wo despatched further orders, ordering Captain W. Russell's Company and Captain Wallace's, both military men, to march on Petane to-day. This •will not take them more than from ten to twelve miles from head-quarters. The Clive and Hampden Companies will parade twice a day. I will resume at 5. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

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No. 11. Hon. H. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. Napier, 11th April, 1869. Major Geeen has gone as aide-de-camp to Lambert. Soon be known what is the state of affairs. Russell's and Wallace's Companies not included in the 190, and will add at least 150 to his force ; there is also the Petane Company some sixty strong, very good men, and about twenty A.C. mounted, and twelve dismounted. I doubt not Lambert will press on if necessary, and that his force will second his efforts if enemy makes a stand. Captain Withers was to have left Wairoa to-day, and would hear what had happened at Mohaka yesterday ;he will bring news of Wairoa expedition —I fear it will be a failure. If no' news from Wairoa to-morrow forenoon, can get a small vessel to run down. Rely on the utmost vigilance and zeal both on Lambert's part and my own, and that no unnecessary expenses will be incurred. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. H. Russell.

No. 12. Hon. H. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 125.) Napier, 6.56 a.m., 12th April, 1869. Come to the office, news through night not so good. Pearce, settler, arrived about lam.; lives just this end Mohaka River at its mouth, and saw fight with Natives and destruction of buildings. Pilot also returned at 2 a.m.; reports heavy firing late in the afternoon, and was himself fired on when attempting to land. Pearce says, "Te Kooti in full possession of Mohaka;" it is quite possible. Have you no steamer ? lam sending off the life-boat again to Wairoa. More when we meet. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell. No. 13. Hon. 11. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. " Waikau, Sunday, noon. —Sir, —Te Kooti is full possession of Mohaka. The Mohaka Natives held their pa against him for about twenty-four hours. Early this morning Te Kooti proposed that if they gave themselves up they should not be hurt. This was agreed to ; but when To Kooti entered he began to kill all he could lay hand on. Some thirty or forty, on perceiving Te Kooti's treachery, escaped across the river, and are now with me. It is to be feared that the Europeans living higher up the river have fell into Te Kooti's hand. The whole place is in flames. One European only has been seen dead. Ten Hauhaus were seen dead. I pressed Mr. Stark to hasten with all speed with a report yesterday afternoon, as also a trooper early this morning. We intend retiring as far as Arapurounui, should we not meet reinforcements. Messrs. Lavin's, Cooper's, and Sim's families may have escaped into the bush. Te Kooti is estimated to be 400 to 500 strong. —Your obedient servant, T. A. Peaece." Ten to twelve of the enemy were seen dead previous to the within mentioned Natives making their escape. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. H. Russell.

No. 14. Hon. H. R. Russell to the Hon. Colonel Haultain. Napier, 8.56 a.m., 12th April, 1869. Just received despatch from Lambert, dated Petane, this morning, as follows: —"I am in receipt of all your letters; Pearce's is clearly an exaggeration. Tanner is well in advance—indeed will be at Mohaka to-day, I hope. I shall push on every mounted man. Twogood has done well, so far all right. Now about provisions : send as soon as you can bread, sugar, salt, &c, 30 bushels of oats, 2 kegs rifle ammunition, 3 boxes of breech-loading, and by trooper 16 billies—these at once, as many as he can bring. We have a large force now. Send 3 pack-saddles, complete, and more rations to-morrow. Yours truly, C. Lambert." One of the 18th told me Captain Wray had received instructions to go on emergency one day's march out of barracks. Is this so ? To Hon. Coloucl Haultain, Wellington. H. Russell.

No. 15. Hon. Colonel Haultain to Hon. H. R. Russell. (Telegram.) Wellington, 10.15 a.m., 12th April, 1569. I have only just got your morning telegrams 9.30. I will be down at the office as soon as possible; in the meantime let Lambert move on with his force, if you and he think it desirable. To Hon. H. Russell, Napier. T. M. Haultain.

No. 16. Hon. 11. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. Napier, 9.15 a.m., 12th April, 1869. I consider Wairoa in imminent peril, if it is Te Kooti. They are now known to be in possession of Wairoa side river, and Withers, I hope, has not fallen into hands of any scouts. Look to this at once. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell. 2

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No. 17. Hon. H. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. Napier, 8.45 a.m., 12th April, 1869. Oemond may be expected every minute. Rev. S. Williams says he is sure now that it is Te Kooti. I fear also it is so. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 18. Hon. Colonel Haultain to Hon. 11. R. Russell. (Telegram) Wellington, 12.22 p.m., 12th April, 1869. From what you have told me I do not gather any positive information that Te Kooti is in force at Mohaka. Has Archdeacon Williams any other foundation for his opinion ? If attack is intended on Wairoa, the Europeans have been frequently reported to me as able to hold their own, and that their position is impregnable. To Hon. 11. Russell, Napier. T. M. Haultain.

No. 19. Hon. H. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram.) Napier, 9.24 a.m., 12th April, 1869. Should I offer ammunition and provisions to Natives, if any wish to go? I propose offering their passage in the two schooners, which will take them right down. I regret a force was not sent in lifeboat yesterday and by craft to Mohaka. Richardson's troop will be at Petane about 10 o'clock. Hon. Colonel Haultain, AYellington. Russell. No. 20. Hon. 11. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram.) Napier, 12th April, 1869. I hate seen Mr. Ormond, and told him that I would co-operate with him cordially in any measure for the safety of the Province. He met me in the most friendly spirit. A great number of armed Natives have arrived in town, and are waiting instructions. We will probably send on sixty or seventy Natives by the crafts, about forty can go in an hour. Unless you give me discretion to act, it will not do to suspend telegraphic communication any time to-day. Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 21. Hon. Colonel Haultain to Hon. H. R. Russell. (Telegram.) Wellington, 1 p.m., 12th April, 1869. I see no necessity for sending any Natives to join Lambert at present; if he hears that the enemy is going to make a stand, then let them join him. You know they are not of much use, and nothing that you have sent me leads me to conclude that anything more than a dash at the ammunition is intended. If Wairoa is threatened, j'ou have the whole of Ihaka Whanga's people to assist. You are therefore not to send any Natives at present to Lambert; but you may ration such as have come into town armed and ready to march. There is no steamer available in this port; but I requested Richmond to send the " St. Kilda" back some days ago. If you have actually arranged to start Natives for Wairoa by water, let them go, but you are not to take any further steps of this kind without getting positive instructions from Government. Hon. H. Russell, Napier. T. M. Haultain.

No. 22. Hon. 11. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. Napier, 1.45 p.m., 12th April, 1869. I hate just seen evidence of Native lad who came in boat; from it and other information there can be no doubt that Te Kooti is there and in possession of pa. I could not delay arrangements till you returned. What I have done is this: Paul Hiotoro and Paul Kawhotu start at once, mounted, 31 in all, and I agreed to give them ammunition and rations. They proceed by forced marches to get in behind Te Kooti's people to catch them on retiring. As many more Natives under Ranata go tomorrow morning in the " Grayling " cutter, hired for the trip at £15, as she can carry ; they will land cither at Mohaka or Wairoa, as may be best. They also receive ammunition and rations. I have said nothing about pay. It will be too late to get them forward when I can hear from Lambert; but if during the night information comes that enemy have bolted entirely, we can stop Renata's lot, but Major Green has just sent word to me from head-quarters, Petane, 11 a.m., that Te Kooti was in possession of pa at Mohaka. I shall send you Native lad's evidence, one of the refugees by boat, in a few minutes. There is now no doubt that it is Te Kooti, with at least 150 men, and there is a chance of catching him. Native lad's evidence —Pa, Mohaka, taken by Kooti on Sunday morning. Kooti got possession by professing friendship, then set to and killed Natives in pa 40, chiefly women and children, 13 got away, rest believed to be killed. To Kooti fired at in pa by two Natives at close

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quarters, result not known. Hauhaus lost 12 killed. Houses of settlers burnt. When Kooti got possession he said " This is done ; now for Wairoa." As fugitives left saw party friendlies coming from Wairoa. These must afterwards have engaged enemy. Kooti's force said to be 300 to 500. The estimate Native. Kooti took 163- casks of ammunition and rifles. To Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 23. Hon. H. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram, No. 128.) Napier, 5 p.m., 12th April, 1869. Mueiwai just iv from Wairoa ; accounts very satisfactory ; no doubt now of Te Kooti having attacked Mohaka; reported strength 400 men ; has been attacked by Ihaka Whanga and Wairoa Natives, and with our force hurrying up, I hope he will be captured at last. I shall send particulars as soon as 1 can analyze despatches, which are very full, and dated 10th and 11th. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 24. Hon. H. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram, No. 132.) Napier, 9.15 a.m., 13th April, 1869. No news during the night. Despatched orderly at 11 p.m. to Lambert with copies of Wairoa despatches, and with regard to concentrating armed force as possible at Mohaka for action to-morrow morning. I went to Spit and saw cutter " Hero " hauled out at 11 p.m. last night with rations and ammunition for Mohaka and Wairoa. Sent off boat same time with strong crew to land rations at Awapawanui and Waikane for troops marching up ; and to go on to Mohaka, deliver my letter to officer in command, and bring me news by 4 p.m. if possible of what is going on. Weather beautiful. We are just going to embark Renata's Maoris in " Grayling," which sails about 10, I hope. I was all ready since yesterday at noon with this cutter, which takes rations and ammunition also. More presently. To Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 25. Hon. 11. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 134.) Napier, 9.44 a.m., 13th April, 1869. Just received despatches from Lambert, who left for front immediately he received my despatch. All goes well, and to-night there should be a large force at Mohaka. lam sending rations, &c, for horse and foot, for the line of march by sea. There was an alarm at Mcanee last night. Colonel Russell and all his family came in. Shall move Havclock Company to Meanee to-night, if I see occasion. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 26. Lieut.-Colonel Lambeet to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 133.) Napier, 9.44 a.m., 13th April, 1869. Maeching with troopers —56, 10 mounted infantry, and 74 foot. I hope to be at Mohaka with mounted men this afternoon. The infantry will not get so far. Should the Wairoa Natives havu fixed upon To Kooti and keep their hold, I shall be in time to do something. All in good spirits. I leave at Petane about 170, not a very movable force. I have a Native here who was in the pa when delivered up; they had only lost one man ; Kooti told them they should not be injured and gave them presents, then demanded their guns ; oi.e refused, whom he shot, and then the slaughter began. Reported that his scouts have been seen near Waikari, and has pack-horses going up Mohaka Valley. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Lambebt, Petane River.

No. 27. Hon. H. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 140.) Napier, 12 noon, 13th April, 1869. Renata has sent after Paul Torotoro's party as many mounted men as will make up 70. " Grayling " now embarking about 30 more, and Murewai'will take on about 30 at 3 o'clock. lam giving my anxious attention to the commissariat, but as the weather is beautiful, I trust to-night all will be at. its proper depots. Lambert left at daylight with 124 mounted men, including Richardson's force, whose horses are much knocked up. Captain Kennedy with 80 men on foot also proceeded. The rest of the Militia remain at Petane with Captain Russell and Major Green. I have directed the latter to push out mounted scouts towards the two Mohaka fords. The Natives are keeping a sharp look-out towards these quarters, and I have told Ormond those left behind should bo ready at any moment. You may depend on utmost economy in every way. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

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No. 28. Mr. George Burton to Hon. Colonel Haultain. Napier, 12.15 p.m., 13th April, 1869. On Saturday morning news reached Wairoa that Te Kooti had killed all the out-settlers, and had entrenched himself close to the pa. lat once started for Mohaka to ascertain the truth of the matter; on reaching there I found it to be correct. I despatched a man to Wairoa to give the information, and to get as many Natives as possible. The Natives arrived on Sunday morning, and 40 of the Natives belonging to Mohaka got into the pa, under cover of Ihaka Whanga. Fighting commenced about 10 a.m. ; the Hauhaus made a track round the back to cut us off from Wairoa, which they almost succeeded in doing. They followed up as far as Waikau, and we, getting reinforcements, compelled them to retire back to Mohaka. I cannot say whether Ihaka and his people, in number about 70, got into the pa or not; if not he is still in the bush. When I left Wairoa all the Natives at the Mahia was expected, and would be ready to start for Mohaka in the morning. I shonld estimate the Hauhaus to be about 400 or 500, a great many of them are well mounted. We got some prisoners and they state that Te Kooti was getting very weak, and had very little ammunition, and if we had had a greater force he oculd have been taken that day. I kept a position close to the enemy for thirteen hours, and had a good opportunity of ascertaining their number. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington, George Bueton.

No. 29. Hon. H. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 145.) Napier, 12.45 p.m., 13th April, 1869. Despatches just received from Lambert on the road. Captain Towgood was at Waikare only yesterday afternoon; had seen one of the A.C. come in that arrived from Mohaka. Intelligence as follows : —Te Kooti really there in person ; had been joined by other tribes, and force about 300. Remaining pa now occupied by friendly Natives of Wairoa, Te Kooti having retreated inland. Our losses not so great, but friendlies say Kooti lost heavily. Lambert has sent back the infantry to Petane, but pushes on to Mohaka with his mounted men. I shall consider what is now best to bo done. Kooti may double upon our forces, and come along an inland track which I know from Mohaka by Petane. I have sent to suspend embarkation of Natives, and also departure of mounted men, for an hour, but to have everything ready. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 30. Hon. H. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 147.) Napier, 1.15 p.m., 13th April, 1869. Departure of Natives for Mohaka stopped. In concert with Ormond, I am arranging for their watching the inland roads from Mohaka towards our settlement. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 31. Hon. Colonel Haultain to Hon. H. R. Russell. (Telegram No. 373.) Buildings, 3 p.m. 13th April, 1869. I am very scrry that Te Kooti has retreated without giving us a chance, but the Napier Militia and Volunteers deserve the highest praise for the promptitude and good spirit with which they have turned out for service. This will be more formally expressed when you report their return, and you yourself thanked for your exertions and the great assistance you have rendered the Government. Keep Richardson's men in hand to move to any spot that may be threatened ; the coast line will be safe enough. To 11. R, Ru|sell, Esq., Napier. T. M. Haultain.

No. 32. Hon. H. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 153.) Napier, 8.35 a.m., 14th April, 1869. Mr boat returned from Mohaka at 1 this morning, and handed me pencil note from Mr. Weber to Mr. Ormond, dated Mohaka, 6 o'clock last night. This is a copy (here taken verbatim from paper sent) :— " Mohaka, Tuesday, 12th, 6 p.m. —Towgood and his men, Tanner's, and the whole party [cavalry] arrived at Mohaka this morning, numbering in all about 100 men. Pound that Te Kooti had left yesterday morning. The Mohaka Natives held out in the big pa, reinforced by a small party from the Wairoa. Te Kooti said to be killed. Loss on our side —Lavin's family, Cooper and Wilkinson (known), and about forty Natives, principally women and children. Hauhau loss said about twelve killed. Enemy retreated towards Putere. Our main force, under Tanner, at the pa. Twenty men under Braithwaite at Mohaka Block-house. Colonel Lambert expected to-night at Waikare. Our force will wait his arrival here. The force are in want of ammunition. —C. Webee." I have not seen boatman yet, but have sent for him. Shall telegraph any further information. I am about despatching another boat thence to bring back information to-night, as we shall hear from

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Lambert. I intend allowing most of the second-class Militia to return to town to-day, but shall keep the remainder in hand till we hear where Te Kooti's baud has gone. From Putere it is only a day's march of an active enemy to Petane. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, AVellington. Russell.

No. 33. Hon. Colonel Haultain to Hon. H. R. Russell. (Telegram No. 376.) Buildings, 12.20 p.m., 14th April, 1869. I don't understand, from your telegrams, what arrangements you are trying to make with friendly Natives. Do not employ any but those who have gone with Lambert without special instructions. We will not put a number of these men on pay to do little or nothing. What family hail Lavin ? To H. R. Russell, Esq., Napier. T. M. Haultain.

No. 34 Hon. 11. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultatn. (Telegram No. 157.) Napier, 1.6 p.m., 14th April, 1869. This telegram was omitted to be sent last night by my clerk : —Just returned from Spit despatching cutters. Boat and cutter that went last night observed off Waikare at daylight, and would be at Mohaka early. Wind fair, and I expect boat soon with latest news. I do not quite rely on news of Te Kooti's retreat. Shall send telegrams after I have done with continuation of events; all goes on well. Natives drew back when time came to embark. Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 35. Hon. H. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 158.) Napier, 1.21 p.m., 14th April, 1869. I hate been busy all morning despatching orders to different Militia detachments so as to make their service as light as possible consistent with the public safety. I shall let you know what I have done presently, but my arrangements are giving great satisfaction. I have important news from Taupo from Hamlin, and from another man just arrived by way of Patea, and will communicate the same presently. Lavin had wife and two children. The boatman has just come to see me; he says it is quite possible they may have been in the bush, as Sim and his family, eight in all, only came in from the hills yesterday at 5 p.m. Shall send boatman's news presently. Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 36. Hon. 11. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 169.) Napier, 2 p.m., 15th April, 1869. Two p.m. Just received despatch from Lambert overland by Weber. Shall send abstract presently. Enemy gone. Our losses not so great —seven Europeans, about twenty-six Natives. Party of Constabulary and Volunteers gone up valley reconnoitring. Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 37. Lieut.-Colonel Lambeet to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 180.) Napier, 9 a.m., 16th April, 1869. I have seen the Natives who defended the pas, and placed them on rations; they have no food, and have behaved well. It is not known that the road to Wairoa is clear, but I shall ascertain that. I have also placed the Mohaka Militia on pay ; they will be in the block-house. Lambeet, Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Mohaka, 15th April.

No. 38. Lieut.-Colonel Lambeet to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 181.) Napier, 9 a.m., 16th April, 1869. Captains Tanner and Towgood with all Militia and Volunteers, march for Napier. I have retained Dr. Russell for service and to attend upon the wounded Natives. lam keeping the mounted A.C. here until I hear from you. Napier need not be afraid of any attack at present, but the Titiokura Gorge should be attended to. An enemy might get in by Petane. Te Kooti could have reached Napier as easily from Ruatahuna as he did Mohaka via Tarawa. The report here of his being shot is still believed. Found the bodies of Lavin and wife, and Cooper and thirty-one friendlies up the yalley. Hon. Colonel Haultain. Lambeet. 3

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EURTHER PAPERS RELATIVE TO MILITARY

No. 39. Captain Withers to Hon. Colonel Haultaln. Sic— Wairoa, Wednesday, 14th April, 1869. I have the honor to inform you that I arrived on Thursday at this place. On Friday the prize-firing took place. On Saturday I went to Te Kapu, and on my return, at 4 p.m., I was informed that Mohaka had been attacked by Te Kooti in person, with a very strong force. On the day following a party of Natives (friendly) under Ihaka Whanga, with Mr. Worgan, Interpreter, started for Mohaka without my knowledge. As soon as I learnt this I started in person to do all I could with them to relieve the people at Mohaka. On my reaching the high ground which overlooks the Mohaka Valley, I found Mr. Worgan, Mr. Burton, and a great party of Ihaka AVhanga's people occupying the heights over the latter place, a position which I considered of very great importance. Ihaka and some forty of his men occupied a knoll between me and the enemy some 300 or 400 yards. I tried to get down to them, but failed, from the very hot fire which was poured into us by the enemy from the hills opposite. I then returned to the heights, and saw that Mr. Worgan occupied the key of the position with a number of Natives quite strong enough to turn the tide of affairs in our favour, had the Natives held it as they ought to have done. Unfortunately, I knew nothing of the Native language, but after being there some time, and seeing the Hauhaus trying to outflank us, Mr. Worgan informed me that our Natives were about to start for the Wairoa; this I could hardly believe, considering their chief Ihaka Whanga was in the valley below, in great danger; but, unfortunately, it proved too true; in a very short time there was not a Native left with Mr. Worgan and myself, who, being thus left without any assistance, had to run for our lives, followed closely by the Hauhaus as far as Waihau, a distance of nine miles. I yesterday organized a force of seventy Natives (Ihaka Whanga's people) with some twenty European settlers, men on whom I knew I could depend, for the purpose of rescuing Ihaka, if still alive, and also relieving the Natives in the pa at Mohaka. Unfortunately I met Ihaka some four miles from Wairoa, on the beach. On his representation the Natives determined to return, he reporting that the Hauhaus were in too great force to be attacked by so small a body. I then returned, much against the wishes of the Europeans who accompanied the expedition. This morning, feeling still that something ought to be done to relieve those people in the pa who had held out so long against a force so superior in numbers, and serving under a man who is believed by his followers to bear a charmed life, I tried to organize, in conjunction with Messrs. Worgan and Saunders, a force to start to Mohaka, but utterly failed, the Natives refusing to go, alleging that they had no hope of doing anything, and fearing that an attack might be made on their pas here. Finding that I could do nothing by land, Toha suggested that provisions and ammunition should be sent down by boat, he himself commanding. I despatched two boats at 10 a.m. with the above, accompanied with Mr. Saunders. I have every confidence that I can, with the force under my command (viz., the Armed Constabulary, Militia, and Volunteers), hold the Wairoa against any force that Te Kooti and Te Warn combined can bring against me, so long as I have ammunition and provisions, and I am happy to say that I am ably supported by Captain Spiller, and the whole of the officers, non-commissioned officers, and men of all corps in this place. I have, &c, The Hon. the Defence Minister, E. Withees, Captain, Wellington. Commanding Local Forces, Te Wairoa.

No. 40. Mr. C. E. Haughton to Lieut.-Colonel Lambeet. (No. 190-3.) Colonial Defence Office, Sib,— Wellington, 20th April, 1869. I am instructed to acknowledge receipt of Captain Withers' telegraphic memo, of the 16th instant, reporting his efforts to relieve Mohaka, and that he could hold,Te Wairoa against any force the enemy could bring against it, and to request you will be good enough to convey to that officer Colonel Haultain's entire approval of the steps he took to endeavour to relieve the Mohaka, on the occasion of the recent visit of Te Kooti's band of murderers. I have, &c, C. E. Haughton, The Officer Commanding Militia District, Napier. Acting Under Secretary.

No. 41. Captain Spiller to Lieut.-Colonel Lambeet. Sir,— Wairoa, 14th April, 1869. I have the honor to report for your information that on Saturday last it was reported to me that M6haka was attacked by Te Kooti and a strong force. I immediately despatched three mounted men in company with Mr. Burton, whom I knew to have an accurate knowledge of the country, to ascertain the truth of the report. I lost no time in organizing a force of friendly Natives, who were quickly on the road to Mohaka. I then ordered Mr. Worgan, interpreter, to collect another force, and proceed the following morning, the first thing, as a support to those that had gone on. I called out the Militia and Volunteers for active service. Captain Withers was, at the time the news arrived, at Te Kupu, paying the detachment at that post. On his return I reported the circumstance to him and what I had done. About 2 o'clock Mr. Burton returned, and reported that the friendly Natives were retreating, and that they could not be made to stand, and that the enemy was in great force. The communication between Wairoa and Napier being cut off, I chartered the schooner " Murawai" to convey despatches, women, and children; and requested Mr. Burton to proceed to Napier, as he had just returned from Mohaka, to report the circumstances to the authorities. In order to strengthen my

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force, and as I did not think it safe to leave so small a detachment at Te Kupu, I ordered Captain Corfield to abandon the post. Captain AVithers left this on Sunday morning, intending if possible to proceed to Napier; but on his arrival at Mohaka he found our Natives engaged with the enemy, and was obliged to retreat with them, having heard that Ihaka AVhanga, one of the most respected and loyal chiefs of the district, had been left on the field. I determined to proceed with a few of my men, as I thought it would induce the Natives to make a stand ; I had also made every preparation for the defence of the district during my absence; but Captain AVithers returned and assumed the command of the district, and would not allow me to proceed. A force did not start again before Tuesday afternoon, by which time, I regret to say, it was too late. Ihaka AVhanga was found on the beach a few miles from AVairoa, in a miserable state. At the time the late expedition left the AVairoa to attack Te AVaru, I informed you that I had written to Mr. Worgan, requesting him to direct the chiefs in command to use every precaution by placing scouts well in rear, taking advantage of commanding positions, as it was likely that Te Waru would make a false stand at Tukarangi or Te Kiwi, in order to afford Te Kooti an opportunity of advancing unobserved on one of our settlements. It is strange that this prediction should have turned out correct. Knowing that our Native allies were the only people we had to call upon for assistance if required, I took every precaution, and directed Mr. Worgan on no account to allow all the Natives to accompany the expedition to Waikari-Moana. I have, &c, Lieut.-Colonel Lambert, Harvey Spillee, Commanding Napier District. Captain Commanding Wairoa District.

No. 42. Lieut.-Colonel Lambeet to Hon. Colonel Haultain. Sib— Mohaka, 15th April, 1869. I have the honor to forward a report of my proceedings since I marched with the force under my command from Napier. Marched at 12.30, arrived at Petane and halted for the night, having pushed on Captain Tanner's troop of Cavalry with instructions to reach Mohaka as quickly as possible, keeping me informed of everything that he heard of the enemy, and to communicate with Captain Towgood, who was in advance. I halted at Petane, on the 12th, waiting for information from the front, and for the troop of mounted A.C., which I expected to arrive early in the day, when I intended to march at night. The troop did not arrive so soon as expected. I did not march till daylight on the 13th. I had received information from Captain H. Russell that the enemy was still at Mohaka, and had not taken the pa on Sunday, and that from his position there would be every chance of crushing him. I then ordered the company of Volunteers, made up to eighty-four men, to march at daylight, under Captain Wallace, and Nos. 1 and 2 Companies of Napier Militia, numbering forty each, to march later in the day, and also told off a party of mounted Militia, who marched with Captain Wallace's detachment. I left camp about 7 a.m. and overtook the Infantry, pushed on with the mounted Militia, overtook the mounted A.C. at Awapawanui, and received a despatch from Captain Towgood to the effect that Te Kooti had retired up the Mohaka Valley. I then ordered back the whole of the Volunteers and Militia to Petane, and moved forward with the mounted troop of A.C., who I had to leave at Waikare, the horses being completely beaten. I went on to Mohaka, arrived at 7.30, and found the enemy had left, and that the place was safe; Captain Towgood, to whom great praise is due, having arrived at about 6 o'clock in the morning, and Captain Tanner, with his party, between 10 and 11 o'clock on the 14th. I went with a party some fifteen miles up the valley, but failed to reach the enemy, who had too great a start, and I had not force sufficient to follow him up. On my advance up the valley I saw the devastation that had been committed by the enemy, and counted thirty-one dead bodies of Natives, and a number of horses and cattle. I also ascertained the fate of Mr. Lavin and wife, and Mr. Cooper. I saw the three children interred, and arranged for the interment of the others —Mr. Cooper, Mr. Lavin and wife —and am happy to say their bodies had not been in any way mutilated. The whole of the settlers' houses and most of the Natives' whares have been burnt. 15th.—I have this day marched Captain Tanner's Troop and all the Militia and Volunteers under Captain Towgood to Napier, and shall arrange the force at Mohaka, and, until I hear from you, shall keep the mounted troop there, the horses requiring rest. Captain H. Russell has kept me well supplied with provisions and ammunition. I shall visit Wairoa, which place I shall make my headquarters at present, and will keep you advised of proceedings in the district from time to time. I have, &c, C. Lambeet, The Hon. the Defence Minister, Wellington. Lieut.-Colonel.

No. 43. Hon. Colonel Haultain to Hon. H. R. Russell. (Telegram, No. 384.) Buildings, 2.35 p.m., 16th April, 1869. I find there are only sixteen recruits ready to go by " Ahuriri." Do not issue either breech-loading or revolver ammunition to Natives. I want to get these arms out of their hands, and they ought never to have had them, and our supply of that kind of ammunition is limited. Lambert's despatch received —let me know when the Militia have arrived. To H. Russell, Esq., Napier. T. M. Haultain.

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No. 41. Lieut.-Colonel Lambeet to Hon. Colonel Haultain. Militia and Volunteer Office, Sib,— Wairoa, 15th April, 1869. I have the honor to report that I left Mohaka at 1 o'clock p.m. yesterday, leaving SubInspector Richardson in charge, and arrived at Wairoa at 4.30, and found every preparation made for the defence of the place, the Militia and Volunteers called out, and many of the women and children gone to Napier. I shall wait a few days, and then dismiss the Militia and Volunteers. Captain Spiller reports he despatched a party of Natives on the 10th instant to the relief of Mohaka under Ihaka Whanga, who, in the most gallant manner, succeeded in throwing into the pa a party of Mohaka Natives, about forty in number; this was a most brilliant affair, and the party was led by Constable Hill of the mounted Constabulary, and who is reported to have behaved with great daring and courage, and the example he set did much to secure the success of the relief and defence of the pa. It appears to me that had the Natives moved in greater force from the Wairoa, a serious blow might have been inflicted upon the Hauhaus. You will see from the Wairoa reports that Te Waru has not been seen or his place attacked. Mr. Burton, a gentleman residing at Wairoa, who knows the country around perhaps better than any other person, he having been employed surveying for some time; this gentleman has on several occasions rendered great service to the Government, and was out with Mr. Worgan, assures me that the Natives will not go so far from home by themselves as where Te Waru is said, to be. He also informs me that both he and Te Kooti can be got at from the East Capo as well as from Wairoa. Mr. Burton will willingly assist the Government as a guide or in any way his services can be useful, and I strongly recommend you to take advantage of this offer. Mr. Burton is well known to Mr. Richmond. I have no doubt that the enemy, who left Mohaka on Monday last, have now r got back to the Urewcra country out of our reach, without a properly organized force be sent against them. In my opinion the Wairoa will not be attacked by Te Waru at present. You, with me, must see how defective our information has been relative to the movements and whereabouts of Te Kooti. I have a note from Mr. Hamlin in which he states that Wirihana's wife reports that he was to pass through the Taupo plains on Saturday last, the very day he was at Mohaka, if he was there ; if not, why we have another enemy ; is it not possible that the party who made the raid on Mohaka were Ureweras and not Te Kooti's party ? It may have been Te Waru, if Mr. Hamlin's intelligence is worth anything. In my telegram from Mohaka I stated that the enemy there w ras about 150; this was about the number attacking the pa, those engaged by the Wairoa Natives were not seen by my informant. On Tuesday a party of twenty Europeans and about seventy Natives started for Mohaka to look for Ihaka Whanga, who_had been cut off when the pa had been relieved, he was met about four miles from Clyde, returning. The Natives, who had three days' rations and some ammunition served out to them, refused to proceed further, and returned to Clyde. On Wednesday Captain Withers, finding he couldnot induce the Natives to proceed overland, sent two boats with provisions and ammunition, which arrived about three p.m. same day. It appears that the Natives were reluctant to leave their families and homes, and have a great dread of meeting with Te Kooti or Te Waru. I shall see the chiefs as soon as I can; I would have seen them to-day, but we are having much wind and rain ; besides, it is very cold, in which the Natives will not move. I have reason to believe that about 150 Natives may be had here who will be useful, but the mass under the old chiefs are not to be relied upon. I have, &c, C. Lambeet, Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Lieut.-Colonel Commanding Local Forces.

No. 45. Mr. C. E. Haughton to Lieut.-Colonel Lambeet. (No. 189-3.) Colonial Defence Office, Sib,— Wellington, 20th April, 1869. I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your telegraphic memorandum, dated 16th April instant, reporting expedition to relieve Mohaka, and the devastations and murders committed by the rebel Natives in their attack upon that settlement. I am directed by the Defence Minister to express to you his sense of the zeal and energy which have distinguished your conduct in this affair, and to request that you will, in the name of the Government, thank the Militia and Volunteers for their services, rendered with such promptness and spirit. Nothing could have been better, and their example will have a good effect throughout the Northern Island. I have, &c, Lieut.-Colonel Lambert, C. E. Haughton, Commanding Militia District, Napier. Acting Under Secretary.

No. 46. Hon. H. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 215.) Napier, 10.59 a.m., 19th April, 1869. The Natives at Mohaka have written me an urgent appeal for some food and clothing, as they have literally lost everything ; and their defence was a very gallant one, and, from its obstinancy, no doubt prevented the war party from making an attack on the Wairoa or Petane, and at out-settlements, before assistance could reach. Captains Tanner and Towgood, who saw the havoc with their own eyes, strongly recommend the Government to send immediate relief. They have given me a list of articles

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required, which I append. In addition, some of the biscuit and stores now at Mohaka might be given out to them when Richardson's force is withdrawn to-day. I hope the Government will lose no time in granting the request. The " Star of the South" would land them at daylight to-morrow. The defenders of the Mohaka Pa having written to the Government, requesting that, having lost their clothing, &c, during the attack made by the Hauhaus, the Government will take their hard case into consideration, as they are quite destitute, the following articles are proposed:—2s pairs blankets, 25 pairs mole trousers, 25 blue serge shirts, 20 pairs boots, 1 piece calico, 2 pieces print, 25 tweed shirts, needles and thread. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 47. Hon. Colonel Haultain to Hon. H. R. Russell. (Telegram No. 400.) Buildings, 1.30 p m., 19th April, 1869. Give the Mohaka Natives the blankets, mole trousers, and serge shirts, also pieces of calico and print, &c, but neither boots nor tweed shirts are necessaries. To be charged to Native Department. You can also issue them some food, but do not let Natives suppose that we can compensate them for all losses ; theirs is considered a special case. To H. R. Russell, Esq., Napier. T. M. Haultain.

No. 48. Hon. Colonel Haultain to Hon. 11. R. Russell. (Telegram No. 382.) Buildings, 10.40 a.m., 16th April, 1869. Are the thirty-one Natives reported by Lambert as found dead up the valley in addition to those stated to have been killed in the pa ? To 11. R. Russell, Esq., Napier. T. M. Haultain.

No. 49. Hon. 11. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram, No. 185.) Napier, 11.40 a.m., 16th April, 1869. I think the thirty-one Native bodies were seen by Lambert, on his advance up the valley. They would be in addition to those at the pa. Weber reported about forty Natives killed in all. Full particulars presently. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 50. Hon. Colonel Haultain to Hon. 11. R. Russell. (Telegram, No. 523.) Buildings, 11.10 a.m., Ist May, 1869. How many friendly Natives were killed in Te Kooti's recent attack on Mohaka? Were those reported by Lambert as found dead up the valley in addition to those killed at the pa? To Hon. H. Russell, Napier. T. M. Haultain. No. 51. Hon. 11. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 8.) Napier, 12.40 p.m., Ist May, 1869. Lambert saw up the valley thirty-one bodies, about one third men, rest women and children —principally children. Natives report twenty-six killed in small pa entered by Hauhaus when rest escaped. Not known how many, if any, were killed in pa that was defended. I shall get exact information shortly. To lion. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 52. Lieut.-Colonel Lambeet to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 257.) Napier, 11.16 a.m., 22nd April, 1869. I have just received a report that the Hauhaus are in force within two and a half miles of Mohaka; the officer in charge fully expects to be attacked hourly. I have sent away the troopers and shall send, if I can, a force by vessel. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Lambert.

No. 53. Hen. Colonel Haultain to Lieut.-Colonel Lambeet. (Telegram No. 434.) Buildings, 12.58 p.m., 22nd April, 1869. You are right in sending the troopers to Mohaka. I will get the "Lyttelton" as soon as possible, and she will be very useful to run between Napier and Wairoa for a few days. Do rob be in a hurry about sending a lot of Militia to Mohaka, if they are strong enough to hold their own in the 4

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block-house. It is only an organized force that can bo of any good. A few picked men are better than a large number of undisciplined Militia. Let me know what you propose before deciding anything. Be certain that the Hauhaus mean fight before disturbing a large number of the townspeople, &c. To Colonel Lambert, Napier. T. M. Haultain.

No. 54. Hon. 11. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 261.) Napier, 12.26 p.m., 22nd April, 1869. Have you received telegram to-day in time for ammunition for Whitmore per Wellington? lam sending off Captain Withers in the pilot-boat to Mohaka, with a few men. He ought to be there by 4 p.m. Reply at once. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 55. Hon. 11. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 258.) Napier, 11.20 a.m., 22nd April, 1869. Ensign Witty has sent in a despatch from Mohaka Block-house, dated yesterday, saying that Hauhaus had again descended within two miles and a half of Mohaka; two flags flying; numerous fires burning. Witty believed they had heard of ammunition in block-house, which should not have been left there. Richardson's troop ordered up again. We shall send two cutters with thirty men at 3, when tide permits them to go out. This will cause much alarm. I wish " St. Kilda" may come round by Wairoa, and learn news. Hapuka, with fifty armed Natives and other Wairoa Natives, in pa, and Witty has sixteen men ; so I am despondent. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 56. Hon. 11. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. Napier, 1.35 p.m., 22nd April, 1869. lam at Spit. Can you come to office at once, and have some talk about the march of Richardson's troop? I can get a smart craft to take them at 4 p.m. ; they can be off Mohaka, to land, at daylight. Richardson is here. Says he cannot cross twenty of his horses till 4; can't possibly reach Mohaka till to-morrow afternoon with tired horses; will quite knock up troop for days, and render them unserviceable for Whitmore. Would prefer going by sea, dismounted. Beach smooth to-day ; pilot says every indication of fine weather. Lose not a moment, as Richardson must get his troop in from Petane to embark. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 57. Hon. Colonel Haultain to Hon. H. R. Russell. (Telegram No. 440.) Wellington, 2.10 p.m., 22nd April, 1869. I think it will be a very good arrangement to ship the troopers for Mohaka, and leave their horses to rest. I will instruct Lambert. lam at the office. To H. R. Russell, Esq., Napier. T. M. Haultain.

No. 58. Hon. Colonel Haultain to Lieut.-Colonel Lambert. (Telegram No. 441.) Wellington, 2.11 p.m., 22nd April, 1569. Ship the troopers and send them to Mohaka by sea, so that their horses may have a rest. To Colonel Lambert, Napier. T. M. Haultain.

No. 59. Hon. Colonel Haultain to Hon. H. R. Russell. (Telegram No. 443.) Wellington, 22nd April, 1869. Let the troopers go as soon as possible by sea, and return without delay if Hauhaus arc not iv force. It will at least give their horses a rest. The lifeboat should go also. I don't think you need any Militia, but have Tanner's troop warned to be ready in case they are wanted. To H. R. Russell, Esq., Napier. T. M. Haultain.

No. 60. Hon. 11. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. Napier, 5.49 p.m., 22nd April, 1869. Two of Hapuku's mounted men just crossed (4 p.m.). Left Mohaka last night. Confirmed report that Hauhaus were iv force at Putcre to within two and a half miles of block-house; besides Mohaka

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Natives, there were in pa Hapuku with fifty, and a lot of Wairoa Natives. The two men have come back to Tareha's pa for further assistance, and are to return with it immediately. They say tho friendlics are in good spirits, not afraid of attack, but want reinforcements to take defensive. There are lots of cultivations at the Mohaka, and probably they have come back to pack a lot of food to Putere. I never was satisfied they retired beyond Putere; that is an important post, about eight miles from AVaikari-Moana, commanding easy roads to AVairoa, Mohaka, and Petane; should be occupied by Herrick's force I think as a first position. To Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 61. Hon. 11. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 276.) Napier, 8.2S a.m., 23rd April, 1869. " Geatltng," with twenty-six men, got off about 8.30; " Mahia," with about forty, not till 11.15. Fine—■ light breeze off the land, and hope they got down all right by daylight. Beach beautifully smooth. No further news this morning that I hear of, but shall doubtless have plenty in course of day. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 62. Hon. 11. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 28 k) Napier, 2.45 p.m., 23rd April, 1869. Just seen young Deighton, the Wairoa mailman, who came in yesterday evening. He passed through Mohaka between 1 and 2 o'clock p.m. of Wednesday—after alarm brought in by scouts. They saw a large encampment of Hauhaus, at Manga Turanga, near Lavin's. Lots of horses saddled, and fires burning. Had made no movement up to time Deighton left. In the pa there were about 100 armed Natives, including Hiipuka's. All ready for action; no panic. Messenger at once despatched to Wairoa. Ihaka Whanga at Wairoa. No news at Wairoa when Deighton left at 9 a.m. Block-house capable of defence for a time. Informed people on the road down, but none have come in. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 63. Lieut.-Colonel Lambert to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 291.) Napier, 5.36 p.m., 23rd April, 1869. No news from Mohaka. I fear the men from here have not landed. I have a letter from Spiller, Wairoa. The orderly who left Wairoa stopped at Petane ;he must have passed Mohaka yesterday, so that up to that time no fight. The man from Petane knew nothing. From all I hear the enemy is about four miles up the valley. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Lambert.

No. 64. Hon. 11. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. Napier 8.10 p.m., 23rd April, 1869. Boat that went with Captain Withers returned. Landed at Mohaka at daylight. Block-house in possession of Europeans. Pa enlarged and strengthened since last attack ; full of natives in good spirits. Hauhaus had been within two miles of pa and driven off all the cattle, about thirty head. Captain Withers went out with scouting party. Beach first-rate for landing, but want of wind prevented the cutters getting in early. "Grayling" would arrive about 2, " Mahia " this evening. Boats were towing them in as Withers' boat was leaving, at 11 to-day. All this is most satisfactory. Ammunition safe, and cavalry saved from being quite knocked up. More to-morrow. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 65. Lieut.-Colonel Lambert to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 292.) Napier, 8 a.m., 24th April, 1869. Captain Witiiehs arrived at Mohaka. Hauhaus have retired—not known where. Some Natives have gone out to find their whereabouts. The ammunition and stores aro embarked. Constabulary had not arrived. Cutter in sight. To Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Lambert.

No. 66. Lieut.-Colonel Lambert to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 293.) Napier, 8.30 a.m., 24th AprilrlB69. You will have had my last night's telegram. I can arrange to hold the block-house. I think it should be held ;it is the key to the landing, and on the road from Napier to Wairoa. The few settlers left will leave, if abandoned; so will the Natives. The Constabulary had not landed last night. I shall have them back, and will employ " Lyttelton " for the purpose ;it will not take her long. Let me know sharp if you approve. I shall send forty kegs of ammunition by " Wellington." To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Lambert.

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No. 67. Hon. Colonel Haultain to Lieut.-Colonel Lambert. (Telegram No. 463.) Buildings, 10.50 a.m., 24th April, 1869. As the Hauhaus have retired there is no necessity for keeping the troopers at Mohaka, and they should be brought back as soon as possible and pushed on to Taupo. Consult with Russell in these matters, and also as to the number of scouts that should be retained. It is better to keep an extra good lookout until a movement is made to meet Whitmore, which will soon be arranged when Mr. Richmond arrives. The men who arrive by " Lyttclton " should go to Mohaka, but she will not be at Napier till late to-night or early to-morrow morning, as she is very slow. There are some invalids on board who should remain at Napier for treatment. Report when she arrives, and state number of men. To Colonel Lambert, Napier. T. M. Haultain.

No. 68. Hon. 11. R. Russell to Hon. Colonel Haultain. (Telegram No. 209.) • Napier, 10.21 a.m., 21th April, 1569. Three armed Natives just arrived from Mohaka; left as cutters were going in. All right, and in good spirits at Mohaka. One hundred armed friendlies there. Hauhaus had retired. Not true about taking away cattle; they say it was friendly Natives removing cattle. Ihaka Whanga preparing his men for assisting in offensive operations. Had sent oft' messengers to East Cape. An Uriwcra had called out to friendly scouts, " Stop a bit, my brave fellows, your doings are being concealed." This they interpret to mean that more men of mark had been killed at first attack than friendlies knew of — probably, in reference to Paora, the Urewera chief, and Te Kooti. The messengers have come to get some more of their own people to go up to strengthen them. I have no doubt they have been collecting food, probably to make a stand. To Hon. Colonel Haultain, Wellington. Russell.

No. 69. Captain Withers to Lieut.-Colonel Lambert. Sir,— Mohaka Block-house, 23rd April, 1869. I have the honor to inform you that we arrived off the mouth of the river at 4 o'clock this morning, and landed about two hours afterwards. I found all correct at the block-house. Ensign Witty had embarked the ammunition and stores on board the cutter " Hero," which sailed for Wairoa about 6 o'clock last evening with seven men of the Armed Constabulary, principally those not drilled. I find, on inquiry, that the information given by Mr. Witty was quite correct; that the enemy was in some force within two miles and a half of the block-house, but the scouts who returned from Manga Turanga last night report that the Hauhaus had left that place, which is only two and a half miles from here, but where they are going to no one at present knows ; but there is a party of Natives going out immediately to ascertain their whereabouts. The Natives aro also quieting down very much. There is a schooner in sight, I suppose the " Grayling" with the Constabulary, but I fear she will not get in till night, as the wind is from the north-west. I will write to you again by the cutter. I have, &c, Lieut.-Colonel Lambert, E. Withers, Captain Commanding Colonial Forces, Napier. (in charge of Mohaka District). P.S. —I forgot to mention that Sub-Inspector Richardson called out the Militia and put them on pay before he left; let me know if this is right. E. W.

No. 70. Hon Colonel Haultain to Hon. H. R. Russell. (No. 216-3.) Colonial Defence Office, Sir,— Wellington, 30th April, 1869. On relieving the Napier Militia and Volunteers from further duty, you are requested to inform them that the Government have received with much satisfaction the reports that have been made of the alacrity and promptness with which they assembled and inarched from their homes and occupations for the defence of outsettlers of the Province. They have not only cheerfully undero-one severe hardships, but have zealously continued to perform irksome and monotonous duties, which are the most trying to all troops, afier the first excitement of action has passed away. This is not the first time that the Napier settlers have proved their readiness and ability to rely on themselves and maintain the peace and security of their Province, and the Colony will acknowledge that they have shown an excellent example to all disturbed districts of the Northern Island. I have already expressed by telegram the sense the Government entertain of the assistance rendered by yourself and Lieut.-Colonel Lambert during the late emergency. H. Russell, Esq., I have, &c, Acting for the General Government, Napier. T. M. Haultain.