Thames Nov. 2nd 1870 My dear Sir The sitting of the Native Land Court is nearly over and as yet the only auriferous land taken through the court are Waihi and perhaps a part of Te Aomata. Waihi by my last letter you will learn was awarded with the exception of 15 acres entirely to counter claimants some of whom are opposed to ceding for mining purposes. Riria Harepe however, told e we were wrong in looking so much to Ngatioi and she was a Queenite and they would put us right - The claimants to Taukanihi 1 & 2 Waikowhiti Karangahake 1 & 2 and Taukanihi have been withdrawn, claimants to these were partly Ngatihoi and partly Ngatetamatua Robert's people - Mackay instructed by Riria Karepe has sent in claims for herself and Party. Te Hira and thus of course this is rather an interesting feature in the case - but I am disappointed in it and having been done by Te Hira's direction, it will hold good nevertheless. I do not think Ngatioi will have any chance when these claims come before the Court - but Te Hira and party will not be able to get rid of Rapata and party who must come in as Ngatitamatua. The withdrawal of the claims mentioned above will leave no claims to auriferous country before the court. I have however made application for restriction in accordance with instructions to Mr. Heale, in every case nature of which is to be argued on 15th inst. Your obd. servt. E. W. Puckey