The formation of a read from Napier to Taupo which might be carried on to the military posts at Waikato is a subject of such importance in reference to the settlement of the Native question that it cannot be too earnestly urged. There are great numbers of refugees from the war residing at Taupo and until something is done to make that district more accessible, disaffected tribes will always resort to it, from a traditional belief they entertain that it will be one of their last strongholds. Those very natives under friendly chiefs are in such distressed circumstances that they would readily take employment on the roads and if the general Govt. would undertake it I would give the most cordial assistance to carry it out, and place the provincial Engineers services at the disposal of the Govt. for directing the work. The portion of the road in the province of Hawkes is already in a very forward state. Donald McLean.