Monday Aug. 18. '57 My dear Sir, Nothing has occurred amongst the natives during the last week. An angry feeling still prevails against W. Kingi and Katatore which will likely result in some excesses when the weather becomes a little settled before peace can be made with them. Some of the young Ninia men ridicule the very idea of making peace with "tena tangata" (Katatore). Ihaia te kiri kumara renowned for his courage speaks confidently upon the Land question but whether he will be sufficiently supported to give effect to his commendable intention remains to be seen. From Waitaha to Waitara puta noa ki uta realises his expressed intentions we shall however see. I imagine the natives are tired of the whawhai, seeing that the bone of contention continues as before and he tonu ana. It is however unfortunate for them I may say for all of us that Katatore has not yet been disposed of. His obstinacy is of the most dogged description and all reasoning in use is but waste of breath and words. Depend upon it a bold officer well up to stratagen with a handful of men would send a host of these "warriors" to the right about so long as he kept clear of the forest, leaving friendly natives to go after them when there. The steamer is reported in sight and I see the flag flying. Tuesday Aug. 19. Our little Town is crowded with most of the wisdom but not all the beauty of New Zealand and every one is asking the news from your metropolis but beyond the new tariff nothing whatever has been elicited. Many thanks for your note of the 15th inst. Touching the question of my removal I am quite unable to go into the subject just now --- it is however certain that I cannot continue here on £150 out of which I am necessitated to keep a horse. I can do better at carting --- on this important subject I will write to you by next oppty. I have been up all night expecting an addition to my family you will therefore this hasty scrawl. Will you kindly let me know in your next what office I hold here as I see nothing in the Estimates to guide me. In haste, Faithfully yours, H. Halse.