My dear McLean, The Commodore has returned having left 30 men of the Victoria at N.P. Col. Gold wished him to remain but as he could not say anything would be done the Commodore declined and returned here. Parris appears to be entirely neglected and only saw him for a few minutes. He, Parris, thinks the Southern tribes will attack the town but cannot say when. They say they will cut down the flag staff. At the Waitera all was going well and cheerful Nelson thought an attack might be made with a strong force now but that W. King is digging rifle pits and making his Pah very strong indeed. The Commodore wishes to return to Taranaki with all the men he can carry. I demur: if any thing can be done, he ought to take every man he can collect and go but if nothing can be done I doubt if we should denude Auckland of troops. On the other hand the Niger and perhaps the Fawn will soon be here. Now what do you think about the safety of Auckland? If I thought Auckland quite safe I would let him go with all the men he can take but I want your opinion. I enclose you Irving's note to me but do not shew it; he is with me now. We quite sure that the reports are truly interpreted - Robert Graham interpreted Paul's speech about direct purchase of land very differently to the way in which it is reported. Believe me, Yours sincerely, T. G. B. July 11 Can I send you any thing out to Kohimarama