My dear McLean, The 'Airedale' and 'White Swan' are in -- Halse and Turton are back -- the former from Taranaki -- he was fetched from Mokau by the Tasmanian Maid at the suggestion of Parris -- The sketch had been received and will be shown to be devoid of truth -- I enclose a circular letter of Wi Tako's on the subject of the Waitara question, than which nothing could possibly be more satisfactory -- We had news from Waikato yesterday by Mr. Ashwell -- also satisfactory -- it seems the day after we left Potatau spoke out plainly No doubt after receipt of the report of the deputation sent to investigate. He said his people had brought him from Mangere to dwell among them and now they wanted to make another Rauparaha of him -- he would not sanction interference by the Waikato as to the Ngatiruanui they were in a mess through their own evil doings -- the Governor made peace with Heke because he fought honorably but the case was quite different with the Ngatiruanui's -- We heard that a messenger had arrived from Taranaki the evening we left ant I have no doubt that the news he brought decided the old chief as to the reply to be given to the Ngatiruanui and Ngatihikairo -- Mr. Riemenschneider and family have come in -- to town (N. Plymouth) Mr. R. believes the Taranaki and Ngatiruanui are mustering and purpose attacking the town -- they say they will not fight with the soldiers but with the settlers -- it is believed they meditate a night attack -- they are building pas -- at Takapu, Warea, and Hangatawa -- these complete the return to Tataraimaka to build a large pa from whence to carry on marauding and murderous excursions 200 Troops by the 'City of Sydney' and artillery have arrived at N.P. the 'Cordelia' is there -- more troops daily expected. In haste, Yours truly, Thos. H. Smith D. McLean Esqre.