Nelson, 14 Septr., 1860. My Dear Sir, I am glad to find an opportunity to write you a few lines and to tell you, that I arrived safely back from my adventurous expedition. The Native Pepene, who has the intention to go to Auckland asked me, as he was some time travelling with me and several years with the surveyor Mr. John Rochfort to give him a letter for you. I have travelled long enough in New Zealand to know the Maori character and I can assure you, that I consider Pepene, one of the most honest upright thinking natives, whom I ever met. I have seen him under trying circumstances and I must confess, that he ashamed some of the Europeans of my party - I am certain that he will not mix in any way in this sad Maori war and will as Mr. Mackay observes, prove himself a good and loyal subject of the Queen. Pardon me, that I am so short, but I am occupied over my ears with my report, the Nelson Government and the Public expecting it anxiously. Hoping to see you very soon in good health I am, My dear Sir, Yours very truly and faithfully, Julius Haast. Donald Maclean, Esqre., Native Secretary, Auckland.