Napier 8th. Jany. 1866 My dear Lyon, The "St. Kilda" sails this evening for Opotiki. There is no news of much importance from this quarter. The Hau haus have been driven from all their positions at the Wairoa and our force is in possession of all their crops cattle and cultivations. The enemy is now at Waikare Moana an inland lake from which a combined attack from the Bay of Plenty and this place may be made upon them, I do not yet know what course the Govt. will be prepared to take in the matter. I have written to Stafford about the matter by last mail. Whitaker called here on his way to Wellington he wished to see Stafford about the Waikato and other matters. I expected Mrs. Lyon down here, let me know if and when I am to expect her that I may arrange to meet her, she will always find one of my sisters at home at Napier, so tell her if I should not be here, that she is to go direct to my house. There seems to be very little news from Auckland, or Wellington, Percival goes down by this opportunity. I hope the inland pull from your quarter has been reduced and that some of the natives are willing to co-operate and act as guides. The Natives on this side work remarkably well. You will be sorry to hear of the loss of poor Russell he was a great favourite altogether, the arrival of his wife makes it a melancholy affair. Let me know in time if you think you will require sheep for your place at the Waikato, I can supply you on easy terms. My increase of lambs is about 8000, and I am always open to sell some of the old stock. I remain, Yours faithfully, Donald. McLean.