Private For His Excellency's perusal. Donald McLean, 30 May 61 Bay of Islands, 23 May, 1861 My dear McLean, By this opportunity I forward an official giving an account of a very respectable meeting held at Wiremu Kaitaia and Ruhe's Settlement, near Waimate, at the instance of our good friend Tamati Waka, whose exertions for the Public good in this neighbourhood, deserve much praise. The object of these meetings has been to ascertain the feelings of our people, more particularly in reference to a contemplated Military movement against the Waikatos. How far the old gentleman is authorized to do this, is of course best known to himself. He is I think gaining more popularity every day, by the interest he takes in the military affairs of the South. From what I have heard these last 10 days past, there is but little doubt that if Tamati were to take the field with only a handful of men at first, he would be very soon joined by a respectable Body of Followers. This influence he claims as a kind of Inheritance. Hongi Heka as you are aware, frequently did the same, and his successes ensured him ever after, a considerable Retinue, oftentimes uninvited. It was part of his plan in the Waikato expedition, as you are well aware. I suppose that we shall know more of the intentions of the Government bye and bye. I don't know whether you place much reliance upon Tamati Ngapora's professions - He seems to my mind a very doubtful subject and in confirmation of this opinion, I heard Tamati Waka give anything but a favorable opinion of him. Among other things. He believes him to be at the bottom of the Kings Staff and Movement. I think it right to mention this for your information. Have received your official in reference to visiting the natives, and shall now feel more at liberty to do so, and will write you more frequently as to the inclinations of our people here. Kind remembrances to Rogan, and believe me, Sincerely yours, H. T. KEMP Donald McLean Esq., Auckland