New Plymouth May 14, 1858 Dr. Sir Mr. Halse has shown me an official letter he has received respecting the Salaries of the Native Assessors who have been engaged in the Native Fences, requesting him to report thereon. Under all the circumstances of the case I really cannot see how they can be blamed for it cannot be described any other than as a civil commotion, in such they all join one side or the other for self-protection because the Government (perhaps wisely) do not think proper to suppress it. I may be out of order in giving an opinion, not having been asked to do so, I will therefore briefly state, that my only fear is that it may set them against the sale of land which they are now favourably disposed for, and anxious for the termination of the Feud to open the negotiations, they are also exerting themselves to bring about peace, which I believe would have been effected in a week, only for the plot, reported in my official letter --- at which they are displeased. I remain Dr. Sir Yours obedy. Robert Parris. D. McLean Esq.