A.—No. 21

CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT

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possessed him, and that was why I asked you to let him come by way of this place, in order that I might know what his thoughts really were. Enough on that point. Now only is the way open. I said so before, and felt assured that you still had a word which had not been made known to us, and for which we are anxiously looking out. Enough ; I await your reply. Manuwhiri.

No. 20. The Hon. Mr. M'Lean to Manuwhiki. Friend Manuwhiri, — Auckland, 30th November. 1869. Salutations to you. Your letter I have received safely. It has thrown great light upon the subject. Tho way is now opened for us both (to consider the different points at issue). The meaning and intent of the following words, which I addressed to you, viz., " That there still remained thoughts and ideas to be freely discussed," was this : It seemed to me that so much had taken place since we last met which had to bo talked over, and which could not be said within the compass of a letter, that I thought an opportunity might offer presently, when we might spend several nights and days in talking those matters over (with advantage). Now, however, that we have seen each other in person, it has been the means of reviving those feelings of respect for Potatau, Te Wharepu, and other chiefs who have gone to the place of the dead, and to you also, one of the same rank of chiefs, who yet survive. Now, then, let our discussions on this occasion be of the same friendly nature as when we used to sit together under one roof, in days past. From your friend, To Manuwhiri, Te Kuiti. Donald M'Lean.

No. 21. Wiremu Pukapuka to the Hon. Mr. M'Lean. To Mr. M'Lean, Native Minister,— Te Kuiti, 18th November 1869. My wish is to inform you that on the 3rd day of December I propose to pay a visit to see Wahanui and Tawhana, so that I may hear what their opinions are with reference to what Bewi said to you. The proverb says—" That high as the heavens are they may be reached by good works ; broad as the land may be, peace can easily cover the whole surface." This is my figurative language which I now address to you. As soon as Te Heuheu arrives in Auckland please to let me know. Four friend, Wiremu Pukapuka.

No. 22. The Hon. Mr. M'Lean to Wiremu Pukapuka. Friend Wiremu,^— Auckland, 30th November, 1869. Salutations. I have received your letter of the 18th instant, informing me of your arrival at Alexandra, and of the report that you heard of the separation of some persons from Te Kooti's work. Friend, your words are good; when you arrive at Tokangamutu send me another letter. I suppose Bewi is either there or at Tuh.ua. I have no news to tell you. Te Heuheu will be here soon, either to-morrow or the next day. From your friend, To Wiremu Bukapuka, Tokongamutu. Donald M'Lean.

No. 23. Wiremu Pukapuka to the Hon. Mr. M'Lean. Friend M'Lean, — Te Kuiti, near Tokangamutu, 12th December, 1869. Salutations to you. Your letter has come safely to us. Bewi is still here. He has no intention of going at present to Tahua. On the 12th of this month Aporo was sent from here to see Te Kooti, but it is difficult to understand the mind or the intentions of that man. This is another subject. Friend, I have returned from Mokau. I have seen Ngatimaniapoto, and there is nothing new in that quarter. I myself am attending the Native Land Court at Hamilton, with reference to lands which are immediately in the district of Otorohanga. These were the lands that were brought before the Native Land Court by some of the Government|Natives. The proceedings of these jieople have given Bewi great annoyance. When you have received this letter send me a reply. To Mr. Mr. M'Lean. Wi Pukapuka.