Auckland May 16th, 1871 My dear McLean, I sent all official papers and private letters by the Taranaki to Wellington today and thinking that you might possibly linger a little at Napier I write this by Star of South. I had Ormond's telegrams by Taupo on the 13th inst. but find that my reply owing to some carelessness on the part of one of the Telegraph clerks was not sent. There was nothing very important except a message from Hargreaves saying that Tawhiao and Manuhiri would not give up the murderers of Todd. A letter to Paul herewith gives further details. The enclosed from Puckey came to hand this morning. I have no later news from Ohinemuri except the newspaper stories that Te Hira has given the "road" and the "mail" to Mackay. I have fixed upon a site for the Powder Magazine different from either of those first contemplated. O'Neill approves and I have called for tenders for the work to be received up to Tuesday 23rd inst. so that there will be no time lost. The Wanga has just arrived from Honolulu but brings no English mail. The battle between the commune and the Government still continues. There is nothing in the Telegrams relating to New Zealand or its affairs. I am yours very truly, Daniel Pollen A Message today from St. John at Alexandra says that he is stopped by the weather.