New Plymouth August 21st. 1851. Dear Sir, I read with great pleasure the late Southern papers, and embrace first opportunity to express my gratitude to Sir George for all he was pleased to say and do for me in Council on 26th. ultimo. Will you have the kindness to thank him, when opportune, and let me know, that I may not be in a dilemma, if he should visit this district unexpectedly. Gardiner tells me that you have paid off and finally settled Absentee claims to Haupoto. I was glad to hear this, and will soon expect you round to extinguish the few remaining claims to a block of land that has caused so much trouble and delay in its acquirement. From all accounts, the land North and South of it will be purchased at less cost, and infinitely less vexation, though not of less value for agricultural purposes. Indeed the whole of the country in that direction is of a superior description; and the sooner it changes owners the better for all of us. I have heard that the smallness of the sum offered by Government is a material reason, with the natives, for refusing to sell. I myself question the practibility of acquiring land within gunshot of an established township, for a sum only considered sufficient in years gone by; and now that natives are becoming independent, the wonder is they part with their lands at all. Tamati Waka is accused of a case of misconduct with one Rora, wife of Wiremu Riparipa, belonging to the Puketapu tribe. The injured man does not seem willing to let the affair blow over; and the natives generally wish the offender removed from the Police; a step, I apprehend, requiring consideration. The subject was, by me, avoided; and until I have heard from you, I intend to continue same course. Wiremu te Rangi is anxious to break up his reserve on Mr. Richardson's estate, and I fear will not allow me to put him off any longer. After all, it is perhaps as well; for, to tell the truth, my excuses are nearly exhausted, and when you know I have been gammoning him for the last 12 months, with success, you will wonder, with me, how it has been effected. However I intend to try again, and do hope to avoid future difficulty in buying him off. I received your note on 4th. on 19th. inst, and an thankful for advice therein contained. An opportunity only is wanting to see me shine forth as you desire; and I wish without hope of success. I am too old for an infant language. I only manage to pass in a crowd. The Attorney-General arrived here on 18th. and left 20th. inst. for Auckland with three Mokau lads at 5/- each a day. Not a man would go for less. Was it not strange? Sincerely and faithfully yours (Signed) H. Halse. To:- Donald McLean Esq.