Dr. Sir, Mr. Revans and self have carefully examined into the Militia as per accompanying papers etc. I was myself averse to the award of so much money to the Millwright as £200 but Revans would not agree to less. I however put a rider after the reward in the report to the effect that it was also in consideration of his staying to take charge of the Mill up to the present time, but this is also very doubtful as to how far he was compelled to remain in charge, whether he did remain in charge from choice or actual necessity I am myself inclined to believe the former. I regret to say that Manihera and Ngatuere have now made the Mill a fresh subject of dispute, the Manihera claiming it as his peculiar property and doing all he can to prevent Ngatuere from grinding or having anything to do with it. The Miller is now leaving Papawai they not being able to come to any terms either to engage him as Servant or to lease it to him. I am much afraid that the Mill will become a very serious bone of contention among them. I need hardly aay how much I am disappointed in the Wairarapa Natives, I consider them to be the greatest Scoundrels unhung constantly worrying me by some confused and unfounded claims or statements. I have been delayed for the last ten days between the Hutt and Greytown by the constant and incessant rain and consequent flood in the River. I am not aware but suppose I ought to write officially about Mr. Kempthorne (s recall as I really think that the work he is doing is unnecessary and valueless, if you can do it without I think it would be better, I have received no information of any sort from him and would wish to go and see him but fear I have not the time to spare, the constann questions arising from disputed boundaries take up the greater portion of my time, I will send Deeds etc. by next mail as soon as I can get them translated and copied. Yours very truly Will N. Searancke. D. McLean Esq. Auckland. In a short time do not be surprised to hear that I am either dead or mad. W. S.