A true copy. April 12th, 1865. My dear Sir, In the present unsettled state of Native affairs in this part of the Island and having only 200 regulars stationed here. It is found necessary to enrol a company of Military Settlers. I consider the quickest mode of getting 100 men for the present Emergency would be by sending to your Province and I trust that you will be good enough to afford your cooperation in the matter. I have written to Col. Balneavis to assist Sergt. Mgr. Serg who goes up from here to select the men. From the great number of people coming into Auckland a few being taken down here will not be felt by you. The state of Poverty Bay is not improving I doubt from what I hear whether the Settlers will be safe in remaining there - In a few days the St. Kilda will be sent down to see how they are getting on. I remain, Yours faithfully, Sd. Donald McLean. The Hon. the Supt. Auckland. Semi official.