Waiuku March 23, 1861 My dear Smith I write to say every thing continues quiet, and that Katipa is not yet numbered with the dead. Several Ngatihauas from the seat of war have been here during the week with wheat which realised £300, the whole of which has been laid out in blankets, calicos, prints, trousers, tobacco etc. etc. They are evidently providing for the winter, and the business done here almost exclusively with them is really very considerable. With the exception of boasting of their prowess at the expense of the military, I am glad to say they have behaved themselves with singular propriety. Some of the Ngatiatas are disappointed in not seeing Searancke back according to his promise; a few lines stating the cause of his detention would have been desirable. I attributed the delay to McLeans absence, but now that he is back, I shall be obliged to invent some other excuse, unless the missing individual appears in person early week. I shall expect a letter from you next Wednesday in answer to my application for leave, if only to say ''all right'' come to Town as soon as you like. Faithfully yours, H. Halse. To: Smith Esq.