N. L. Office, June 2nd, 1857. My dear McLean, It has been decided to send a vessel to look after you and to hasten your return if not interfering injuriously with your arrangements at Coromandel. The Governor is (needlessly, I think) anxious about the movement in Waikato with reference to the King-maker business. The Ngati Whatua --- represented by Te Kawau, Te Keene, and others had an interview with His Excellency on Saturday proposing to enter into an alliance offensive and defensive with the Government for the purpose of opposing any combination of the Waikato tribes under Te Where whero. They report that the majority of the Waikato's side with the party who propose to make Te Wherowhero king --- among them Hoani Papite of Rangiawhia that the loyal chiefs are Waata Kukueai, Takere,i Te Kauwau, and Wetene. Hori te Waru, doubtful. Te Whero --- Whero himself not taking up any decided attitude saying neither yes nor no, but waiting to see which side will carry the majority. Te Heuheu is in town and is very anxious to see you. Takerei and his party are also here. Fenton came in yesterday and is I think recommending a sort of counter demonstration --- which I think unwise as giving too much importance to it. It should I think be left to drop to pieces as it will will do if let alone. However, you are wanted here. You will receive with this letters which will throw some light on what is passing. I have not time to add more as the messenger is waiting. Yours truly, Thos. H. Smith.